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Library of The Theological Seminary 


PRINCETON : NEW JERSEY 


=<) 


Fe] 
pan tea 


rg eed 








AMERICAN BOOKSHELF 


1. Samuel Sewall’s Diary. 

2. The Life and Virtues of General 
George Washington, by Parson Weems. 

3. Father Abraham’s Speech, Poor 
Richard, and Bagatelles, by Benjamin 
Franklin. 


4. Journey to the Land of Eden, and 
Other Papers, by William Byrd. 


5. Travels Through North and South 


Carolina, Georgia, East and West 
Florida, by William Bartram. 


6. Nick of the Woods, by Robert 
Montgomery Bird. 


THIS SERIES EDITED BY 
MARK VAN DOREN 








MANUFACTURED IN THE UNITED 

STATES OF AMERICA AND COPY- 

RIGHT IN 1927 BY MACY-MASIUS: 
PUBLISHERS 


First Printing, September, 1927. 
Second Printing, November. 1927, 





The Diary of Samuel Sewall. of which the present volume 
is an abridgement, was first published in three volumes by the 
Massachusetts Historical Society (1878-1882). It is the most 
intimate record now available of life in New England during 
the important period which it covers, and the genius of the 
author for self-revelation has frequently won him the com- 
pliment of a comparison with Samuel Pepys, his English con- 
temporary. One difference between the two Diaries, however, 
is that while that of Pepys was kept for only ten years, that 
of Sewall covers the major portion of his life. Sewall was 
born in England in 1652. He came to New England at the 
age of nine, studied divinity at Harvard, entered the ministry, 
married, and thereafter devoted himself to public affairs. He 
held numerous offices in the Massachusetts colony, becoming 
in 1692 a judge of the Superior Court, and in 1718 its Chief 
Justice. He died in Boston in 1730. He was involved in the 
legal machinery which condemned the Salem witches to death, 
but later published a recantation, standing in church while it 
was read. ‘The Diary is valuable not only for its picture of 
public life between 1680 and 1730 but for its picture of the 
author himself in the privacy of his confessional. His relations 
with his wife and their fifteen children, his journies to towns 
outside of Boston, his business observations, his devotions, and 
especially his full account towards the close of his famous 
courtship of Madam Winthrop—these, with innumerable minor 
details, are the materials of a rich and appealing narrative. 


’ q ‘ M. V. D. 


Digitized by the Internet Archive 
in 2021 with funding from 
Princeton Theological Seminary Library 


https://archive.org/details/samuelsewallsdia00sewa 





April 4, 1675, Sab. day. I holp preach for my Master, [Mr. 
Parker] in the afternoon. Being afraid to look on the glass, 
ignorantly and unwillingly I stood two hours and a half. 

April 29 Brother John and Sister Hafiah Sewall begin to 
keep house at the Falls. 

My Father having found things out of order at the Little 
Farm, viz, Fences down, ground Eaten and rooted up by Cattle 
and hogs, and wanting a good Tenant, the Season of the year 
now spending, resolves and goes to live there, notwithstand- 
ing the littleness and unpretines of the home. 

July 31, at midnight, Tho. Wood, Carpenter of Rowly, 
had his house and goods burnt, and, ve malum, a daughter of 
about 10 years of age, who directed her brother so that he got 
out, was herself consumed to ashes. 

This said Saturday night, in a dream, I fancyed myself to 
have Mrs. Richardson’s child in my arms, and herself follow- 
ing me up a pair of stairs going to heaven, all sorrowfull and 
weeping. I went up innumerable steps and %cill saw nothing, 
so that I was discouraged, doubting with myself whether there 
was such a place as sedes beatorum. Yet I strengthened myself 
as well as I could, considering how apt things only heard of are 
to be doubted (if difficultly obtained and not of a long time) 
though they be never so true. “Thus thinking, I went on; at 
last I came to a fair chamber with goodly lodgings. When I 
saw that was all, I earnestly prayed that God would help us, 
or else we should never get to our journey’s end. Amazed I 
was, not being able to conceive how furniture should be brought 


8 SEWALL’S DIARY 


up those stairs so high. Afterward it was a chamber in the N. 
Building, [at the College], after, part of an old [house] (Goff, 
as I take it) that joined to it, of the same height. A schollar 
told me that those things were drawn up by a pully, and so 
took in at a window which was all ranshacled like that in Goff 
Colledge over the Fellows’ chamber, and all things began to 
seem more vile. 

Nov. 11. Morning proper fair, the wether exceedingly 
benign, but (to me) metaphoric, dismal, dark and portentous, 
some prodigie appearing in every corner of the skies. Father 
went to Attach Ben Goodridge, at which (as all) so especially 
Mother, troubled and disswaded him. 

N. B. Tuesday, Dec. 21, 1675, about the time of the Eclips 
Sister Sewall was delivered in my chamber of a daughter, 
Goodwife Brown being Midwife. 

Saturday Even. Aug. 12, 1676, just as prayer ended Tim. 
Dwight sank down in a Swoun, and for a good space was as if 
he perceived not what was done to him: after, kicked and 
sprawled, knocking his hands and feet upon the floor like a 
distracted man. Was carried pickpack to bed by John Alcock, 
there his cloaths pulled off. In the night it seems he talked of 
ships, his master, father, and unckle Eliot. The Sabbath fol- 
lowing Father went to him, spake to him to know what ailed 
him, asked if he would be prayed for, and for what he would 
desire his friends to pray. He answered, for more sight of sin, 
and God’s healing grace. I asked him, being alone with him, 
whether his troubles were from some outward cause or spiritual. 
He answered, spiritual. I asked him why then he could not 
tell it his master, as well as any other, since it is the honour of 
any man to see sin and be sorry for it. He gave no answer, as 
I remember. Asked him if he would goe to meeting. He said, 
‘twas in vain for him; his day was out. I asked, what day: he 
answered, of Grace. I told him ’twas sin for any one to con- 
clude themselves Reprobate, that this was all one. He said he 
would speak more, but could not, &c. Notwithstanding all 


SEWALL’S DIARY 9 


this semblance (and much more than is written) of com- 
punction for Sin, ’tis to be feared that his trouble arose from 
a maid whom he passionately loved: for that when Mr. Dwight 
and his master had agreed to let him goe to her, he eftsoons 
grew well. 

Friday, Aug. 25. I spake to Tim of this, asked him whether 
his convictions were off. He answered, no. I told him how 
dangerous it was to make the convictions wrought by God’s 
spirit a stalking horse to any other thing. Broke off, he being 
called away by Sam. 

Oct. 10. Last night, H. $.1 somewhat feverish, slept not so 
well as formerly, yet indifferently; cheerly notwithstanding, 
this day. Violent rain and cold. 

Oct. 13. Mother and wife had a good night. Mement. 
Made an Hen Coop. Mr. Clark came and stood by me. 

Oct. 14. Last night very comfortable to wife and Mother. 
Oct. 15, a good night. 

16. Good night. Mr. Brackenbury, the 17%. Best night 
that mother has yet had, slept without so much as dreaming. 
18, 19, 20, all Good nights. Mother conversant in the Kit- 
chen and our chamber. My Wife every day since the Sabbath 
goes to Mothers chamber without hurt. 21 Good night, all 
Hands. 

Oct. 23. Went from Boston about five T. P. to Milton, 
there accidentally meeting with Moses Collier, Mr. Senderlen 
and I went on to Hingham, to John Jacobs. Oct. 24, Tues- 
day, went from thence to Plymouth, about noon; refreshed 
there. Note, James Percival met us there, and so we went 
cheerfully together from thence about 2. T. P.; got to Sand- 
wich about a quarter of an hour by sun: lodged at Percivals 
with Mr. Senderlen. Oct. 25, Wednesday, Breakfasted at 
Stephen Skiphs. He, Percival and I rode out about 12 miles, 
within sight of Marthah’s Vinyard, to look Horses: at last 
happily came on 11, whereof five my Fathers, viz, three chess- 


*Hannah Sewall, his wife. 


10 SEWALL( S DIARY 


nut coloured Mares, and 2 Colts: put them in Mr. Bourns 
sheep-pen all night. Note. Supped at Mr. Smiths, good Sup- 
per. Oct. 26, Thursday, Took up the young four yeer old 
Mare, slit the two near ears of the Colts, their colour was 
a chesnut Sorrel, whiteish Manes and Tails. The Bigger had 
all his Hoofs white: the Lesser all black. Both Stone-Colts. 
The Hair of the Tails cut square with a knife. After this Mr. 
Smith rode with me and shewed me the place which some had 
thought to cut, for to make a passage from the South Sea to 
the North: said ’twas about a mile and a half between the 
utmost flowing of the two Seas in Herring River and Scusset, 
the land very low and level, Herrin River exceeding Pleasant 
by reason that it runs pretty broad, shallow, of an equal depth, 
and upon white sand. Showed me also the 3 Hills on the which 
4 towns kept Warders, before which was such an Isthmus of 
about 3 miles and barren plain, that scarce any thing might 
pass unseen. Moniment Harbour said to be very good. Note. 
Had a very good Supper at Mr. Dexter’s. Being in trouble 
how to bring along my Mare, in came one Downing and Ben- 
jamin his son, who, being asked, to my gladness promised 
Assistance. Oct. 27, Got very well to Plymouth, ‘Tailing my 
Mare, and Ben strapping her on, though we were fain to come 
over the Clifts the upper way because of the flowing ‘Tide. 
There saw Acorns upon bushes about a foot high, which they 
call running Oak; it is content with that Stature. From 
Plimouth Ben and ’s father mounted a Trifle before me, I 
waved my Hat and Handkerchief to them, but they left me to 
toil with my tired jade: was fain at last to untail and so drive 
them before me, at last ride and lead the Mare with great diffi- 
culty. When came to Jones his Bridge, (supposing the house 
had been just by) put the bridle on the Horses neck, drove 
him on the Bridge, holding the Halter in my Hand. When I 
came on the other side, could not catch my Horse, but tired 
myself leading my tired Mare sometimes on the left Hand 
into the Marsh, sometimes on the right Hand: at last left 


SEWALL’S DIARY II 


him, went to the Bridge to ensure myself of the path, so led 
her to Tracies about 14 mile. He not at Home, could scarce 
get them to entertain me, though ’twas night. At length his 
son John put up my Mare, then took up his own Horse, and 
so helped me to look for mine, but could not find him: after 
his Father and he went on foot, and met him almost at the 
House, Saddle Cover lost, which John found in the Morn. 
Oct. 28, Saturday, Goodman Tracy directed and set me in the 
way, so I went all alone to the end, almost, of rocky plain, 
then, by God’s good providence, Mr. Senderlen overtook me, 
so we came along cheerfully together, called at my Aunt’s [in 
Braintree], refreshed, left my tired jade there, set out to Bos- 
ton ward about half an hour by Sun, and got well home be- 
fore shutting in, Praised be God. Note. Seeing the wonder- 
full works of God in the journeye, I was thereby more per- 
swaded of his justice, and inhability to do any wrong: put in 
mind likewise of Mr. Thachers Sermon, Oct. 22. 

Novem. 27, 1676, about 5 M. Boston’s greatest Fire brake 
forth at Mr. Moors, through the default of a Taylour Boy, 
who rising alone and early to work, fell asleep and let his Light 
fire the House, which gave fire to the next, so that about fifty 
Landlords were despoyled of their Housing. N. B. The 
House of the Man of God, Mr. Mather, and Gods House 
were burnt with fire. Yet God mingled mercy, and sent a 
considerable rain, which gave check in great measure to the 
(otherwise) masterless flames: lasted all the time of the fire, 
though fair before and after. Mr. Mather saved his Books 
and other Goods. 

Dec. 14, 1676, Seth Shove was brought to our House to 
dwell, i. e. Father Hull’s. N. B. In the evening, seeing a 
shagged dogg in the Kitchin, I spake to John Alcock, J am 
afraid we shall be troubled with the ugly dogg: whereupon 
John asked which way he went. I said out at the Street door. 
He presently went that way, and meeting Seth (who went out 
a little before) took him for the dogg, and smote him so hard 


12 SEWALL’S DIARY 


upon the bare head with a pipe staff, or something like it, that 
it grieved me that he had strook the dogg so hard. There arose 
a considerable wheal in the childs head, but it seems the weapon 
smote him plain, for the Rising was almost from the forehead 
to the Crown, grew well quickly, wearing a Cap that night. 
’*T was God’s mercy the stick and manner of the blow was 
such as to have spilled his Brains on the Ground. The [ . 

(I think) seemed to be angry at the childs coming to dwell 
here. Written, Dec. 18, ’76. 

Dec. 18, Mr. Rowlandson and Mr. Willard came and vis- 
ited my Father. While they were here, Mr. Shepard also 
came in and discoursed of Reformation, especially the dis- 
orderly Meetings of Quakers and Anabaptists: thought if all 
did agree, i. e. Magistrates and Ministers, the former might 
easily be suprest, and that then, The Magistrates would see 
reason to Handle the latter. As to what it might injure the 
country in respect of England, trust God with it. Wished, 
(speaking of Mr. Dean’s) that all the children in the country 
were baptised, that religion without it come to nothing. 
Before Mr. Shepards coming in, one might gather by Mr. Wil- 
lards speech that there was some Animosity in him toward Mr. 
Mather: for that he said he chose the Afternoon that so he 
might have a copious auditory: and that when the Town House 
was offered him to preach to his Church distinct, said he would 
not preach in a corner. 

Jan. 10, 1676. Cloudy, Cold, noren wind. Note, went on 
foot to Mr. Flints at Dorchester, there to be in the company 
of Ministers: but none came save Mr. Torry. Mr. Fisk was 
gone to his sick Father: Mr. Hubbard and Adams hindred (as 
conjectured) by the wether. So that there was Mr. Flint, Mr. 
Torry, Elder Humphreys, John Hoar, Mrs. Stoughton, Mrs. 
Flint, Senior, Junior, Mrs. Pool and her daughter Bethesda, 
with a Nurse named Clap. Notwithstanding the fewness of 
persons, the day (thro. Gods grace) was spent to good purpose. 
Mr. Flint prayed, then preached singularly well from that place, 


SEWALL’S DIARY 13 


Cant. 1. 6. But my own Vineyard have I not kept; which he 
handled well, Pressing every particular person to look to their 
own Souls. Elder H. prayed. After some pause (because the 
day much spent and I to goe home) Mr. Torrey prayed onely: 
which he did divinely, that we might not think strange of fiery 
Tryal, might be sure not to deceive ourselves as to our union 
with Christ. Indeed, the exercise was such, preaching and 
praying, as if God did intend it for me. I prayed earnestly 
before I went that God would shew me favour at the meeting, 
and I hope he will set home those things that were by him 
Carved for me. Mr. Flint sent his Man after the Exercise, 
so when I had well supped, comfortably rode home. 

Jan. 30. Sent a letter to Cousin Quinsey, which enclosed a 
piece of Gold that cost me 23%. Gave the Letter to Mr. Josson. 
In it ordered to buy 2 pair of Silk Stockings, pink colored, 
black, 1 pair Tabby Bodyes, cloath-coloured, % wide and long 
wastied: also Turkish Alcoran, 24 Hand, Map of London. 
Sent him a copy of verses made on Mr. Reyner. Jan. wit., sent 
a letter to Mr. Thacher, by the Bagg, in which Salutations, 
and some newes. Wednesday, 31 Brother John Sewall 
brought down Sister Jane to live with Mrs. Usher, but the 
next morn I went to her and she gave me to understand that 
she thought Jane would not come, and so had supplyed her- 
self. Father Hull kindly invited her to stay here till she 
should change her condition if she so liked. Note. Just now 
wanted a Maid very much, courted Goodwife Fellows Daugh- 
ter: she could not come till spring: hard to find a good one. 
So that Jane came in a critical time. 

Feb. 23, 1676 . Mr. Torrey spake with my Father at Mrs. 
Norton’s, told him that he would fain have me preach, and 
not leave off my studies to follow Merchandize. Note. ‘The 
evening before, Feb. 22, I resolved (if I could get an oppor- 
tunity) to speak with Mr. Torrey, and ask his Counsel as to 
coming into Church, about my estate, and the temptations that 


14 SEWALL’S DIARY 


made me to fear. But he went home when I was at the Ware- 
house about Wood that Tho. Elkins brought. 

Satterday, Mar. 3, 1678. Went to Mr. Norton to discourse 
with him about coming into the Church. He told me that he 
waited to see whether his faith were of the operation of God’s 
spirit, and yet often said that he had very good hope of his good 
Estate, and that one might be of the Church (i. e. Mystical) 
though not joined to a particular Congregation. I objected 
that of Ames, he said vere guerentibus, the meaning was that 
such sought not God’s kingdom in every thing. I said it was 
meant of not at all. He said, was unsettled, had thoughts of 
going out of the country: that in coming into Church there 
was a covenanting to watch over one another which carried 
with it a strict obligation. And at last, that he was for that 
way which was purely Independent. I urged what that was. 
He said that all of the Church were a royal Priesthood, all of 
them Prophets, and taught of God’s Spirit, and that a few 
words from the heart were worth a great deal: intimating the 
Benefit of Brethrens prophesying: for this he cited Mr. Dell. 
I could not get any more. Dr. Mason (whom I have often 
seen with him) came in, after him Mr. Alden, so our Discourse 
was broken off. 

March 16. Dr. Alcock dyes about midnight. Note, Mrs. 
Williams told us presently after Dutyes how dangerously ill 
he was, and to get John to go for his Grandmother. I was 
glad of that Information, and resolved to goe and pray earn- 
estly for him; but going into the Kitchen, fell into discourse 
with Tim about Mettals, and so took up the time. The Lord 
forgive me and help me not to be so slack for time to come, and 
so easy to disregard and let dye so good a Resolution. Dr. 
Alcock was 39 yeers old. 

March 19, 1676 Dr. Alcock was buried, at whoes Funeral 
I was. After it, went to Mr. Thachers. He not within, so - 
walkt with Capt. Scottow on the Change till about 5, then 
went again, yet he not come. At last came Elder Rainsford, 


SEWALL’S (DIARY, 15 


after, Mr. Thacher, who took us up into his Chamber; went 
to prayer, then told me I had liberty to tell what God had done 
for my soul. After I had spoken, prayed again. Before I 
came away told him my Temptations to him alone, and bad 
him acquaint me if he knew any thing by me that might hinder 
justly my coming into Church. He said he thought I ought to 
be encouraged, and that my stirring up to it was of God. 

March 22. 23. Plenty of Rain after a great deal of dry and 
pleasant wether. In the afternoon of the 23%, Seth and I 
gather what herbs we could get, as Yarrow, Garglio, &c. 

March 30, 1677. I, together with Gilbert Cole, was ad- 
mitted into Mr. Thacher’s Church, making a Solem covenant 
to take the L. Jehovah for our God, and to walk in Brotherly 
Love and watchfulness to Edification. Goodm. Cole first 
spake, then I, then the Relations of the Women were read: as 
we spake so were we admitted; then alltogether covenanted. 
Prayed before, and after. 

April 1, 1677. About Two of the Clock at night I waked 
and perceived my wife ill: asked her to call Mother. She said 
I should goe to prayer, then she would tell me. ‘Then I rose, 
lighted a Candle at Father’s fire, that had been raked up from 
Saturday night, kindled a Fire in the chamber, and after 5 
. when our folks up, went and gave Mother warning. She came 
and bad me call the Midwife, Goodwife Weeden, which I did. 
But my Wives pains went away in a great measure after she 
was up; toward night came on again, and about a quarter of 
an hour after ten at night, April 2, Father and I sitting in the 
great Hall, heard the child cry, whereas we were afraid 
*twould have been 12 before she would have been brought to 
Bed. Went home with the Midwife about 2 o’clock, carrying 
her Stool, whoes parts were included in a Bagg. Met with 
the Watch at Mr. Rocks Brew house, who bad us stand, en- 
quired what we were. I told the Woman’s occupation, so 
they bad God bless our labours, and let us pass. ‘The first 
Woman the Child sucked was Bridget Davenport. 


16 SEW ALLS  DILARY 


April 3. Cousin Flint came to us. She said we ought to 
lay scarlet on the Child’s head for that it had received some 
harm. Nurse Hurd watches. April 4. Clear cold weather. 
Goodwife Ellis watches. April 7, Saturday, first laboured to 
cause the child suck his mother, which he scarce did at all. In 
the afternoon my Wife set up, and he sucked the right Breast 
Dravely.\3\ 4.2. 

April 8, 1677. Sabbath day, rainy and stormy in the morn- 
ing, but in the afternoon fair and sunshine, though a bluster- 
ing Wind. So Eliz. Weeden, the Midwife, brought the Infant 
to the third Church when Sermon was about half done in the 
afternoon, Mr. ‘Thacher preaching. After Sermon and 
Prayer, Mr. Thacher prayed for Capt. Scottow’s Cousin and 
it. Then I named him John, and Mr. Thacher baptized him 
into the name of the Father, Son, and H. Ghost. The Lord 
give the Father and Son may be convinced of and washed from 
Sin in the blood of Christ. 

Note. [May] I went out this morning without private 
prayer and riding on the Comon, thinking to escape the Soul- 
diers (because of my fearfull Horse); notwithstanding there 
was a Company at a great distance which my Horse was so 
transported at that I could no way govern him, but was fain 
to let him go full speed, and hold my Hat under my Arm. The 
wind was Norwest, so that I suppose I took great cold in my 
ear thereby, and also by wearing a great thick Coat of my 
Fathers part of the day, because it rained, and then leaving it 
off. However it was, I felt my throat ill, the danger of which 
I thought had been now over with the winter, and so neglected 
it too much, relapsed, and grew very sick of it from Friday to 
Monday following, which was the worst day: after that it 
mended. Mr. Mather visited me and prayed on that day. 

June 17. Sabbath day about 7 m, John Sewall had a Con- 
vulsion Fit. He was asleep in the Cradle, and suddenly 
started, trembled, his fingers contracted, his eyes starting and 


SEWALL’S DIARY a, 


being distorted. I went to Mr. Brackenbury, and thence to 
Charlestown, and set him to the child. 

June the nineteenth he had another about noon. 

June 21, 1677. Just at the end of the Sermon (it made Mr. 
Allen break off the more abruptly) one Torrey, of Roxbury, 
gave a suddain and amazing cry which disturbed the whole 
Assembly. It seems he had the falling sickness. “Tis to be 
feared the Quaker disturbance and this are ominous. 

July 8, 1677. New Meeting House Mane: In Sermon 
time there came in a female Quaker, in a Canvas Frock, her 
hair disshevelled and loose like a Periwigg, her face as black 
as ink, led by two other Quakers, and two other followed. It 
occasioned the greatest and most amazing uproar that I ever 
saw. Isaiah I. 12, 14. 

Jan. 13, 1678. Giving my chickens meat, it came to my mind 
that I gave them nothing save Indian corn and water, and yet 
they eat it and thrived very well, and that that food was neces- 
sary for them, how mean soever, which much affected me and 
convinced what need I stood in of spiritual food, and that I 
should not nauseat daily duties of Prayer, &c. 

Jan. 22. Went to Mr. Thachers, found him at home, men- 
tioned my desire of communion with his Church, rehearsed 
to him some of my discouragements, as, continuance in Sin, wan- 
dering in prayer. He said ’twas thought that was the Sin Paul 
speaks of, Rom. VII. At my coming away said he thought I 
ought to be encouraged. 

Feb. 15. Having been often in my mind discouraged from 
joining to the Church by reason of the weakness, or some such 
undesirableness in many of its members: I was much relieved 
by the consideration of 1 Cor. 1. 26, 27. which came to my 
mind as I was at prayer. What is spoken there was set home 
on me, to take away my pride and be content with God’s wis- 
dom: thought it might seem to uncovenanted reason foolish- 
ness. 

Having often been apt to break out against God himself as 


18 SEWALL’S DIARY 


if he had made me a person that might be a fit subject of 
calamity, and that he led me into difficulties and perplexing 
miseries; I had my spirit calmed by considering what an absurd 
thing it was to say to God—‘‘Why hast thou made me thus?,” 
and startled at the daring height of such wickedness. ‘These 
thoughts had reference to Isaiah XLV. 9, 10. This was at 
prayer time, Feb. 19. Mane. Death never looked so pleasingly 
on me as Feb. 18 upon the hearing of Mr. Thachers 3 Argu- 
ments. Methought it was rather a privilege to dye, and there- 
in be conformed to Christ, than, remaining alive at his com- 
ing, to be changed. 

March 167%. Note. I have been of a long time loth to 
enter into strict Bonds with God, the sinfullness and hypochrisy 
of which God hath showed me by reading of a Sermon that 
Mr. Burgess preached before the House of Comons, Nov. 17, 
1640, and by the forementioned Sermons and prayers. Omnia 
in bonum mihi vertas, O Deus. I found the Sermon acci- 
dentally in Mr. Norton’s Study. 

Remember, since I had thoughts of joining to the Church, 
I have been exceedingly tormented in my mind, sometimes lest 
the Third church [the South] should not be in God’s way in 
breaking off from the old. (I resolved to speak with Mr. 
Torrey about that, but he passed home when I was called to 
business at the Warehouse. Another time I got Mr. Japheth 
Hobart to promise me a Meeting at our House after Lecture, 
—but she that is now his wife, being in town, prevented him.) 
Sometimes with my own unfitness and want of Grace: yet 
through importunity of friends, and hope that God might com- 
municate himself to me in the ordinance, and because of my 
child (then hoped for) its being baptised, I offered myself, and 
was not refused. Besides what I had written, when I was 
speaking [at his admission to the Church] I resolved to con- 
fess what a great Sifier I had been, but going on in the method 
of the Paper, it came not to my mind. And now that Scruple 
of the Church vanished, and I began to be more afraid of my- 





SEWALL’S DIARY 19 


self. And on Saturday Goodman Walker came in, who used 
to be very familiar with me. But he said nothing of my com- 
ing into the Church, nor wished God to show me grace therein, 
at which I was almost overwhelmed, as thinking that he deemed 
me unfit for it. And I could hardly sit down to the Lord’s 
Table. But I feared that if I went away I might be less fit 
next time, and thought that it would be strange for me who 
was just then joined to the Church, to withdraw, wherefore 
I stayed. But I never experienced more unbelief. I feared at 
least that I did not believe there was such an one as Jesus Xt., 
and yet was afraid that because J came to the ordinance with- 
out belief, that for the abuse of Xt. I should be stricken dead; 
yet I had some earnest desires that Xt. would, before the or- 
dinance were done, though it were when he was just going 
away, give me some glimpse of himself; but I perceived none. 
Yet I seemed then to desire the coming of the next Sacrament 
day, that I might do better, and was stirred up hereby dread- 
fully to seek God who many times before had touched my 
heart by Mr. Thacher’s praying and preaching more than now. 
The Lord pardon my former grieving of his Spirit, and circum- 
cise my heart to love him with all my heart and soul. 
Wednesday Febr. 11, 1684—5.—Joshua Moodey and self 
set out for Ipswich. I lodge at Sparkes’s. Next day, Feb. 12, 
goe to lecture which Mr. Moodey preaches, then I dine with 
Mr. Cobbet, and so ride to Newbury; visit Mr. Richardson 
sick of the dry Belly ake. Monday, Febr. 16, Get Mr. Phillips 
and Payson to Town and so keep a Fastday, Mr. Moodey 
Preaching Forenoon, Mr. Phillips Afternoon, Mr. Wood- 
bridge and Payson assisting in Prayer; was a pretty full As- 
sembly, Mr. Moodey having given notice the Sabbath-day, on 
which he preached all day. At Wenham and Ipswich, as we went, 
we were told of the Earthquake in those parts and at Salem 
(Feb 8). the Sabbath before about the time of ending Afternoon 
Exercise ; That which most was sensible of was a startling dole- 
full Sound; but many felt the Shaking also, Peter and Jane 


20 CHW A LiL: S oD A Ray 


Topan. Mr. Phillips had not finished his Sermon, and was 
much surprised at the Sound, expecting when the House would 
have Crackt. In several places Exercise was over. 

Tuesday Febr. 17, I and Brother, sister Stephen Sewall Ride 
to Sparkes’s by the Ferry, great part in the Snow; Dined with 
Ipswich Select-Men. 18%. I Lodged there; the Morn was 
serene; came to Salem, seeing Mrs. Hale by the way; staid 
Lecture, came to Boston, found all well. Laus Deo. 

Apr. 14th 1685. A Ship arrives from New castle and 
brings News of the death of Charles the 2nd, and Proclamation 
of James the 2nd, King. Brought a couple of printed Procla- 
mations relating to that affair. News came to us as we were 
busy opening the Nominations just before Dinner; it much 
startled the Governour and all of us. In the morn before I 
went the Governour said that a Ship master had been with 
him from Nevis, who told him Gov.” Stapleton should say, we 
should have a new Governour before he got to Boston. Master 
dined with Magistrates and Commissioners at Capt. Wing’s. 
Carried my wife to George Bairsto’s yesterday, April 13th.— 
Thorsday, April 16th, a Vessel arrives from London. Mr. 
Lord, commander, brings Orders to the several Colonies to 
proclaim the King. Mr. Blathwayt writes to Simon Brad- 
street, Esq. superscribed For His Majestie’s Service, advising 
that ’t would be best for us early to doe it; and our Charter 
being vacated in Law and no Government settled here, was the 
reason we were not writt to: Copies and forms sent to us as 
to the other Colonies, but no mention of Governour and Com- 
pany. Also another letter was writt to Simon Bradstreet, Wm. 
Stoughton, Jos. Dudley, Peter Bulkeley, Sam’l. Shrimpton, 
Richard Wharton, Esquires, to proclaim the King. Suppose 
this was done lest the Government should have neglected to do 
it. “Che Council agreed to proclaim the King before they knew 
of the Letter. Major Richards counted the Votes for Mr. 
Dudley, told them twice over, and still found them 666, and 
so twas entered and sent to the Towns. 





SEWALL’S DIARY 21 


Monday April 20th. The King is Proclaimed; 8 Com- 
panies, the Troop, and several Gentlemen on horseback assist- 
ing; three Volleys and then Canon fired. ‘This day a child 
falls upon a Knife which run through its cheek to the Throat, 
of which inward Wound it dies, and is buried on Wednesday. 
"Tis one Gees child.—Thorsday, April 23, Mother Sewall 
comes by Water in Stephen Greenleaf to see us. 

Friday May 8th—past 6, even, Walk with the honored 
Governour [Bradstreet] up Hoar’s Lane, so to the Alms 
House; then down the length of the Common to Mr. Dean’s 
Pasture, then through Cowell’s Lane to the New Garden, 
then to our House, then to our Pasture by Engs’s, then I 
waited on his Honour to his Gate and so home. ‘This day our 
old Red Cow is kill’d, and we have a new black one brought 
in the room, of about four years old and better, marked with a 
Cross and slit in the Left Ear, and a Cross off the right Ear, 
with a little hollowing in. As came with his Honour through 
Cowell’s Lane, Sam. came running and call’d out a pretty way 
off and cried out the Cow was dead and by the Heels, mean- 
‘ing hang’d up by the Butcher. At which I was much startled 
understanding him she had been dead upon a Hill or cast with 
her heels upward, and so had lost her; for I was then looking 
for her and ’t was unexpected, Mother having partly bar- 
gained and the Butcher fetcht her away in the Night unknown. 
Had served this family above Ten years, above Nine since my 
dwelling in it. 

Satterday May 9th, Brother Stephen Sewall visits me.— 
Monday, May 11th, 1685, I accompanied Mr. Moodey to 
Mr. Eliot’s to persuade Mr. Benjamin to go to the Ordination 
of Mr. Cotton Mather, in which I hope we have prevailed; 
the mentioning of it drew Tears from the good Father so as 
to hinder his Speech. “The Father was abroad and preached 
yesterday. Visited Mr. Dudley also. 

Tuesday, May 12th, I weary myself in walking from one 
-end and side of the Town to t’other to seek our lost Cow— 


22 SEWALL? S DEAR Y 


Wednesday, May 13, 1685, Mr. Cotton Mather is ordained 
Pastor by his Father, who said, My son Cotton Mather, and 
in ’s sermon spake of Aaron’s Garments being put on Eleazer, 
intimating he knew not but that God might now call him out 
of the World. Mr. Eliot gave the Right Hand of Fellow- 
ship, calling him a Lover of Jesus Christ. 

Wednesday, June 17* a Quaker or two goe to the Gover- 
nour and ask leave to enclose the Ground [on the Common] 
the Hanged Quakers are buried in under or near the Gallows, 
with Pales: Governour proposed it to the Council, who unan- 
imously denyed it as very inconvenient for persons so dead and 
buried in the place to have any Monument. 

Thorsday, June 18. A Quaker comes to the Governour and 
speaks of a Message he had which was to shew the great 
Calamities of Fire and Sword that would suddenly come on 
New-England. Would fain have spoken in the Meetinghouse, 
but was prevented. Eliakim comes home this day, brings word 
that Capt. Henchman is coming away from Worcester with 
his Family. 

Noyes this day of a French Pirat on the Coast, of 36 Guns. 

Satterday, June 20 1685. Voted. the 16 of July to be 
observed as a Fast. 

Satterday, P. M. Carried my Wife to Dorchester to eat 
Cherries, Rasberries, chiefly to ride and take the Air: the Time 
my Wife and Mrs. Flint spent in the Orchard, I spent in Mr. 
Flint’s Study, reading Calvin on the Psalms &c. 45. 68. 24. 

Monday, July 6%. I am taken with a Feverish Fit; yet go 
to Court in the Afternoon, the County Court, where was read 
Major Pynchon’s Letter to the Council; which is that 5 Men 
came to one of the Houses of Westfield (I think) about mid- 
night 28" June, knockt at the door, the Man bid him come in, 
so in they came all Armed with drawn Swords, and threat- 
ened to run the man and his wife through if they stirred: so 
plundered that House, and another in like manner: told they 
had 60 Men in their Company and that if they stirred out of 





SEWALL’S DIARY 238 


door, they would kill them; so stayd in a great part of Mon- 
day, then when thought the Coast was clear told the Neighbors 
and some were sent to Search after them; at last found them: 
one of the 5 snapt and missed fire, another shot, then one of 
ours shot so as to shoot one of theirs dead: another of the 5 
fought one of ours with his sword, till another of ours knockt 
him down. One or two that were taken are brought to Boston, 
one at least is escaped. Major Pynchon his Works will cost 
near an hundred Pounds. 

An Indian was branded in Court and had a piece of his Ear 
cut off for Burglary. 

Wednesday, P. M., July 15. Very dark, and great Thun- 
der and Lightening. 

One Humphry Tiffiny and Frances Low, Daughter of An- 
tony Low, are slain with the Lightening and Thunder about a 
mile or half a mile beyond Billinges Farm, the Horse also slain, 
that they rode on, and another Horse in Company slain, and 
his Rider who held the Garment on the Maid to steady it at 
the time of the Stroke, a coat or cloak, stounded, but not killed. 
Were coming to Boston. Antony Low being in Town the sad 
Bill was put up with [regard] of that Solemn judgment of 
God; Fast-day Forenoon. July 15, 1685. 2 Persons, 2 
Horses. 

July 21. This day about 31 Ministers meet, Mr. Higginson 
Prayes excellently: Governour gives the Question. Dine all 
together at Monk’s. After Diner about 3 or 4 aclock, they 
give their Answere, i. e. Mr. Hubbard Speaks in behalf of the 
rest, that their Opinion was the Government ought not to give 
way to another till the Generall Court had seen and judged of 
the Comission; so should be called if not Sitting at the Arrival 
of a Comissioned Governour. But several expressed some Dis- 
sent: And after, shewed themselves extreamly dissatisfied, say- 
ing that Mr. Hubbard had greatly abused them and that he 
was not ordered by the Ministers that they knew to speak their 
minds, which six gave in under their Hands, The Meeting has 


24. SEWALL’S DIARY 


been uncomfortable, and I doubt will breed great Animosities. 

Wednesday, Augt. 5. rode to Dorchester Lecture with 
Cous. Nath. Dumer; ‘was kindly entertained at Mr. Stough- 
ton’s after Lecture. Going thither I saw a few Feet of Ground 
enclosed with Boards, which is done by the Quakers out of 
respect to som one or more hanged and buried by the Gallows: 
though the Governour forbad them, when they asked Leave. 

Friday, Nov’. 6. Mr. Willard calls in and tells me of a 
Thanks-Giving intended by the Ministers through the Colony 
upon the 3.4 of the next Moneth: Go to the Governour to get 
his Approbation, which He doth not presently grant; but will 
speak of it in Council on Thorsday next; whether convenient 
for the Churches generally to attend such a Day without an 
Order from Authority, as usual. “The difficulty of Printing an 
Order is, lest by putting in, or leaving out, we offend Eng- 
land. Having occasion this day to go to Mr. Hayward the 
Publick Notary’s House, I speak to him about his cutting off 
his Hair, and wearing a Perriwig of contrary Colour: mention 
the words of our Saviour, Can ye not make one Hair white or 
black: and Mr. Alsop’s Sermon. He alledges, The Doctor 
advised him to it. 

Monday Nov’. 9. Mr. Cobbet buried about 4. in the Af- 
ternoon. Flight of snow. ‘This day about 6 or 7 at night a 
Male Infant pin’d up in a sorry Cloth is laid upon the Bulk 
of Shaw, the T'abacco-Man: Great Search made tonight and 
next day to find the Mother. So far as I can hear this is the 
first Child that ever was in such a manner exposed in Boston. 

‘Thorsday, Nov™. 12. Mr. Moodey preaches from Isa. 57. 1. 
Mr. Cobbet’s Funeral Sermon; said also of Mr. Chauncy that 
he was a Man of Singular Worth. Said but 2 of the First 
Generation left. 

After, the Ministers of this Town Come to the Court and 
complain against a Dancing Master who seeks to set up here 
and hath mixt Dances, and his time of Meeting is Lecture- 
Day; and ’tis reported he should say that by one Play he could 





SEWALL’S DIARY 25 


teach more Divinity than Mr. Willard or the Old Testament. 
Mr. Moodey said ’twas not a time for N. E. to dance. Mr. 
Mather struck at the Root, speaking against mixt Dances. 

Ecclips at night. County Court adjourned till this day 14° 
night. Governour’s Hat blew off and fell flat on the Ground 
just as went to go in at ’s Gate. Hath a new Border which 
began to wear Catechising day or Sabbath last, as I take it. 
Dept. Governour not in Town. New Almanack comes out this 
Day intituled New-England’s Almanack, by Mr. Danforth. 

Wednesday, Nov’. 18. Uncomfortable Court day by rea- 
son of the extream sharp words between the Deputy Governour 
and Mr. Stoughton, Dudley and Others. Some Essay to have 
put a Sanction upon the Apointment for a Thanksgiving; but 
it fell throw. I argued ’twas not fit upon meer Generals, as 
(the Mercies of the year) to Comand a Thanksgiving and of 
Particulars we could not agree. (Governour would have had 
one Article for the Peace of England, according to His Ma- 
jesty’s Proclamation. 

Hollowells business heard, as to Land: about that grew the 
fierceness in discourse. Mr. G. Boroughs dined with us. Ma- 
jor Generall not well. Mr. Shove comes to Town today; but 
I see him not. 

Thorsday, Nov™. 19. Mr. Mather Preaches from Numb. 
25. 11. Shewed that Love was an ingredient to make one zeal- 
ous: those that received good People, received Christ, Mat. 25. 
Said that if the Government of N. E. were zealous might yet 
save this People. 2% Part of 79 Ps. sung. Madam Usher, 
her Daughter and Husband in Mourning. Mr. Stoughton 
and Dudley called here. *Tis reported that a Frigot is to come 
yet before Spring with a Comission for a Governour here, upon 
the place: Mr. Dudley is talked of and ’tis said Healths are 
drunk to the new Governour already, and were so Nov’. 17. 
the day the Ship came in. 

Friday Nov’. 20 a very rainy and dark day, and in the Af- 
ternoon turns to a storm of Snow: Court is adjourned to Tues- 


26 SEWAL LS /DLARW 


day, February 16 at One of the Clock, except some Frigot or 
Ships Arrival from England with His Majesty’s Comands that 
may call for one sooner; then the Secretary, or if he sick or 
dead, the Treasurer, to send forthwith to the Members of the 
Court, and to such others as Freemen may chuse to convene 
two days after the Date of such Signification, to which time the 
Court is adjourned in such Case. No Freemen made, nor 
Prayer. Ground covered with Snow by that time Court done, 
which is een quite dark. Mr. Stoughton and Dudley not 
here today. ’I‘was Essayed again to have had a Sanction put 
on the Thanksgiving: but ’twas again pleaded, to do it without 
mentioning particular causes would be to impose too much on 
those Comanded: So fell. 

Monday night Nov". 23, 1685. I go the Rounds with Cous. 
Quinsey and Isaac Goose, a very severe night for Cold, yet 
’twas fair and comfortable: came home at 5. mane. 

Nov’. 26, Thorsday. Nurse Goose dyes about 2. or 3. 
aclock in the night; having lien sick about a Week: was here 
it seems Wednesday was Senight. Was helpfull to her self all 
along till this last sickness: washt her own Cloaths. She saw 
her great Grandchildren: was a good Woman. 

Nov’. 30. At night viewed the Eclips, which in the total ob- 
scuration was ruddy; but when began to receive some Light, 
the darkish ruddiness ceased. Horizon somewhat Hazy. Read 
in course the Eleventh of the Revelation. 

Monday, Decemb’. 7“ 1685. About One in the Night my 
Wife is brought to Bed of a Son, of which Mother Hull brings 
me the first News: Mrs. Weeden Midwife. 

Wednesday Dec". 9* 1685. Our Neighbour Gemaliel Wait 
eating his Breakfast well, went to do something in his Orchard, 
where Serj‘. Pell dwells, there found him Self not well and 
went into Pell’s his Tenant’s House, and there dyed extream 
suddenly about Noon, and then was carried home in a Chair, 
and means used to fetch him again, but in vain: To the Chil- 
dren startled about him he said, here is a sudden Change, or 








SEWALL’S DIARY cas 


there will be a great Change, to that purpose. Was about 87 
years old, and yet strong and hearty: had lately several new 
Teeth. People in the Street much Startled at this good Man’s 
sudden Death. Gov". Hinkley sent for me to Mr. Rawson’s 
just as they were sending a great Chair to carry him home. 

Satterday, Dec’. 12, ’85. Father Wait buried: Magistrates 
and Ministers had Gloves. ‘There heard of the Death of Capt. 
Hutchinson’s Child by Convulsions, and so pass to the Funeral 
of little Samuel Hutchinson about Six weeks old, where also 
had a pair of Funeral Gloves. 

Sabbath-day, Decemb’. 13 1685. Mr. Willard baptizeth 
my Son lately born, whom I named Henry: David Stoddard, 
the son of Mr. Simeon Stoddard, was baptized next, and then 
Several other grown Children. Nurse Hill came in before the 
Psalm was Sung, and yet the Child was fine and quiet: Mr. 
Willard preached from John 15 8, Herein is my Father glor- 
ified, that you bear much Fruit, so shall ye be my Disciples: 
which is the first Sermon my little Son hath been present at. 

Monday, Dec. 14. This Monday a Jury is sumoned who 
sit on the Body of Joseph Johnson, and the verdict they find, 
a wound an inch or 2 above his Navel which they judge to be 
the cause of his Death, and that they were informed James 
Morgan did it with a Spit. So were Sworn in Court Dec™ 14. 
1685., and James Morgan ordered to have Irons put on him. 
He comitted the Fact last Thorsday night. 

Thorsday, Dec’. 17%. Mr. Mather preacheth from Mat. 
16., former part of the 25 Verse. For whosover will save 
his Life shall Lose it. At County-Court nothing done in Mr. 
Sergeant’s Business: So he makes a Speech when the Court 
open, that if the Court did nothing they would give him a Rec- 
ord of it, that he might go elsewhere for he would not be kept 
out of ’s Money; speaking warmly. 

Mr. Francis Stepney, the Dancing Master, desired a Jury, 
so He and Mr. Shrimpton Bound in 50£ to Jan™. Court. Said 
Stepney is ordered not to keep a Dancing School; if he does 


28 SEWALL’S DIARY 


will be taken in contempt and be proceeded with accordingly. 
Mr. Shrimpton muttered, saying he took it as a great favour 
that the Court would take his Bond for £50. 

Friday Dec. 18. Begun in Course to read the New Testa- 
ment, having ended the Revelation the night before. 

Satterday Dec. 19. Mr. Willard Prayes with my little 
Henry, being very ill. 

Sabbath-day, Dec. 20. Send Notes to Mr. Willard and Mr. 
Moodey to pray for my Child Henry. 

Monday, about four in the Morn the faint and moaning 
noise of my child forces me up to pray for it. 

21. Monday even Mr. Moodey calls. I get him to go up 
and Pray with my extream sick Son. 

Tuesday Morn, Dec. 22. Child makes no noise save by a 
kind of snoaring as it breathed, and as it were slept. 

Read the 16 of the first Chron. in the family. Having read 
to my Wife and Nurse out of John; the fourteenth Chapter 
fell now in course, which I read and went to Prayer: By that 
time had done, could hear little Breathing, and so about Sun- 
rise, or little after, he fell asleep, I hope in Jesus, and that a 
Mansion was ready for him in the Father’s House. Died in 
Nurse Hill’s Lap. Nurse Hill washes and layes him out: be- 
cause our private Meeting hath a day of Prayer tomorrow, 
Thorsday Mr. Willard’s Lecture, and the Child dying after 
Sunrise (wether cloudy), have determined to bury on Thors- 
day after Lecture. “The Lord sanctify his Dispensation, and 
prepare me and mine for the coming of our Lord, in whatso- 
ever way it be. Mr. Tho. Oakes our Physician for this Child. 
Read the 16 Chap. of the First Chronicles in the Family. 

Thorsday, Dec’. 24 1685. We follow Little Henry to 
his Grave: Governour and Magistrates of the County here, 8 
in all, beside my Self, Eight Ministers, and Several Persons of 
note. Mr. Phillips of Rowley here. I led Sam., then Cous. 
Savage led Mother, and Cousin Dumer led Cous. Quinsey’s 
wife, he not well. Midwife Weeden and Nurse Hill carried 





SEWALL’S DIARY 29 


the Corps by turns, and so by Men in its Chestnut Coffin ’twas 
set into a Grave (The Tomb full of water) between 4 and 5. 
At Lecture the 21. Psalm was Sung from 8 to the end. ‘The 
Lord humble me kindly in respect of all my Enmity against 
Him, and let his breaking my Image in my Son be a means of 
it. Considerable snow this night. 

Dec. 25. Friday. Carts come to Town and Shops open as 
is usual. Some somehow observe the day; but are vexed I be- 
lieve that the Body of the People profane it, and blessed be 
God no Authority yet to compell them to keep it. A great 
Snow fell last night so this day and night very cold. 

Satterday, Jan’. [16854] Last night had a very unusual 
Dream; viz. “That our Saviour in the dayes of his Flesh when 
upon Earth, came to Boston and abode here sometime, and 
moreover that He Lodged in that time at Father Hull’s; upon 
which in my Dream had two Reflections, One was how much 
more Boston had to say than Rome boasting of Peter’s being 
there. The other a sense of great Respect that I ought to have 
shewed Father Hull since Christ chose when in Town, to take 
up His Quarters at his House. Admired the goodness and 
Wisdom of Christ in coming hither and spending some part of 
His short Life here. The Chronological absurdity never came 
into my mind, as I remember. Jan’. 1, 1685% finished reading 
the Godly Learned ingenious Pareus on the Revelation. 

Friday, January 22. Joseph Redknap of Lin buried, being 
about 110 years old: was a Wine-Cooper in London, was 
about 30 years old at the Great Frost. Ralph King teste. 

Sabbath, Jan™. 24. Friday night and Satterday were extream 
cold, so that the Harbour frozen up, and to the Castle. ‘This 
day so cold that the Sacramental Bread is frozen pretty hard, 
and rattles sadly as broken into the Plates. 

Thorsday, January 28. Mr. Jenner having lodged at Capt. 
Clap’s last night, with Mr. Belcher and others, come near 
twenty together to Serj’. Bull’s over the Ice and bring the 
News of the Rose Frigot ready to come and bring Mr. Ran- 


30 SEWALL’S DIARY 


dolph, who is to be Deputy Governour, and Mr. Dudley Gov- 
ernour. Jenner came from Ile Wight the 13, of November. 
When Mr. Jenner came in the Magistrates went all off the 
Bench to hear his News in the Lobby. Mr. Addington also 
came in. Isa. 33. 17. was preached from, by Mr. Cotton 
Mather. ‘Thine eyes shall see the King, &c. whoes Sermon 
was somewhat disgusted for some expressions; as, sweet sented 
hands of Christ, Lord High Treasurer of Aethiopia, Ribband 
of Humility—which was sorry for, because of the excellency 
and seasonableness of the subject, and otherwise well handled. 
Doct. ’Tis a matchless priviledg to behold Christ in his Beauty. 
Mr. Eliot not at Lecture. Mr. Jenner rumors that the Ox- 
ford Frigot is to come in the Spring, and bring a Governour 
from England, and that one. Vincent, Brother to the Minister, 
most talked of; which Mr. Dudley laughs at. 

Sabbath-day, Febr. 14. Little Hull speaks Apple plainly 
in the hearing of his Grand-Mother and Eliza Lane; this the 
first word. At the Burial of Mr. Eyr’s Child, Mr. Moodey 
discoursed of the grievous spreading of the Small Pocks in, 
and round about Portsmouth, at Exeter, &c. 

‘Tuesday, Feb. 16, 1685%. General Court meets. Dine 3 
times. Is a discourse this day of a strange Beast killed at 
Middletown, or 4 miles off that place, last Dec., 10 foot long 
his Body, 10 foot his tail, as tall as a two year and vantage 
Horse; Had a dead Horse and two Dear lay at ’s Den, and 
Indians waiting for him, at last saw him coming with another 
in ’s Mouth, as a Cat carries a Mouse almost. Indian shot 
him down. [Sewall writes in the margin—all untrue.] Great 
disorder in the Town by Cock-skailing: I grant 2 warrants. 
Tho. Barnard has one, and James Barns the other, whereby 
several Companies broke up: but for want of a Law and Agree- 
ment shall find much ado to supress it. 

Satterday, Febr. 20. I send for Edw. Cowel and blame 
him for his ill carriage at Richd. White’s Wedding, Dec. 10. 
He denys the fact, and saith he came not nigh her (i. e. the 





SEWALL’S DIARY 31 


Bride) and stooped down only to take up his Hat taken off in 
the Crowd. 

Sabbath-day, Feb. 28. A Jury is summoned to sit upon the 
Body of Sarah, the Daughter of Henry and Mary Flood, 
about 13 weeks old, for that said Mary was suspected of Mur- 
der. So now 3 in Prison for suspected Murder. 

Tuesday, March 2. Brother St. and Wife visit us. Mr. 
Chickly is cast in his Attaint. Morgan, Indian and Flood put 
upon Tryal. 

Wednesday, March 34. James Morgan is brought in guilty 
by the Jury, Sam.’ Phips Fore-Man. : 

Thorsday, March 4. Mr. Moodey preaches. After Lec- 
ture, James Morgan is condemned to dye: He said was mur- 
dered; but spake not of Appealing, which I expected he might. 

Friday 5. Joseph Indian is acquitted. James Morgan is 
sent to, and acquainted that he must dye next Thorsday, and 
ordered that Mr. Mather be acquainted with it who is to 
preach the Lecture. Note. Mr. Stoughton and Dudley voted 
not in the Judgment, and went off the Bench when Sentence 
was to be passed. Major Richards slid off too. Judgment 
was voted at George Monk’s before rose from Table, on Thors- 
day. 

Satterday, March 6. James Morgan sends a Petition by 
one Vaughan, signed with said Morgan’s own hand, wherein 
he acknowledges his own sinfull Life, the justness of the 
Court’s Sentence; and desires longer time to live, but ’tis not 
granted. 

Tuesday, March 9 1685%. Mr. Tho. Kay our Maid’s 
Father, dyes about 8. or 9. aclock. An Order is given for the 
Execution of Morgan next Thorsday; which the Marshal 
Generall acquaints him with. 

Thorsday, March 11. Persons crowd much into the Old 
Meeting-House by reason of James Morgan; and before I got 
thether a crazed woman cryed the Gallery or Meetinghouse 
broke, which made the People rush out with great Consterna- 


32 SEWALL’S DIARY 


tion, a great part of them, but were seated again. However, 
Mr. Eliot, the Father, speaks to me that I would go with him 
back to the Governour, and speak that the Meeting might be 
held in our Meeting-House [the South] for fear of the worst. 
Deputy Governour forwarded it, so Governour proceeded, met 
Mr. Mather, paused a little and then went to our House, the 
stream of People presently following and deserting the Old: 
first part of the 51. Ps. Sung. Mr. Mather’s Text was from 
Num. 35. 16. And if he smite him with an Instrument of Iron, 
&c. Saw not Mr. Dudley at Meeting, nor Court; suppose he 
might not be in Town. Mr. Stoughton here. Morgan was 
turn’d off about 1% an hour past five. The day very com- 
fortable, but now 9. aclock rains and has done a good while. 

Know not whether the mad woman said the House fell, or 
whether her beating women made them scream, and so those 
afar off, not knowing the cause, took it to be that; but the 
effect was as before; and I was told by several as I went along, 
that one Gallery in the old Meetinghouse was broken down. 
The mad woman was the Daughter of Goodm. Bishop, master 
of Morgan. She went in at the Southwest Dore, beat the 
women, they fled from her: they above supposed they fled from 
under the falling Gallery. Mr. Cotton Mather accompanied 
James Morgan to the place of Execution, and prayed with 
him there. 

Friday, March 26, 1686. Court of Assistants. Go to the 
Governour’s and accompany him to Court; was slow to go out 
till knew the Court pretty full: Deputy Governour and about 
% Duzen went down, among whom Mr. Stoughton: Mr. 
Dudley went not. At the Town-House debated what was best 
to do respecting Mr. Shrimpton: Mr. Stoughton related matter 
of fact. Governour had adjourned the Court from Thorsday 
to Monday, beside the Appointment to hear Mr. Sergeant, 
which was done Feb. 25. The Court not being full as the 
Governour alledged, several malefactors were call’d and sen- 
tenced, before which ended, Mr. Stoughton and Dudley came 





SE, WAS) DIARY ag 


in; a while after the Governour said to Mr. Sergeant, Will 
you have your case called now, Here is but a thin Court,— 
which was somewhat grievous to Mr. Stoughton; At length 
Mr. Sergeant and Shrimpton called, Mr. Shrimpton in a great 
fury, said he was no Thief, &c. though called among them; 
and he perceived he was to Answer Mr. Sergeant and not the 
Court, because of the Governour’s speech above; told the Gov- 
ernour he had wronged him much, which some apply to his Ar- 
bitratorship, some otherwise: said there was no Governour and 
Company, and the Governour had notice of it from Mr. 
Humphryes, and would not Answere: substance was what sub- 
scribed before in ’s Paper given in more silently; but now 
spoken, in a great Croud with contemptuous Pride and Rage. 
Gov'., Stoughton, Dudley, Davie, Fichards. Court cleared 
the Room, debated among themselves. None but the Gover- 
nour Spoke to send Mr. Shrimpton to Prison, one reason was 
because he had given the Essence of it in writing long before, 
and nothing had been done to him: But would have spoken to 
him and the People, desiring the Governour to begin; Gover- 
nour said he despised it, or the like, speaking to Mr. Davie 
who propounded it inconveniently: So went away angry, and 
rest followed him; So is extream Displeasure among the Peo- 
ple, against Stoughton and Dudley chiefly: This 26 Shrimp- 
ton sent for, not coming, (was not at home) Court and Coun- 
cil is Adjourned to the next Thorsday after Lecture, and Mar- 
shal ordered to Summon him. 

Satterday, March 27 Capt. Eliot, Mr. Wyllys, Allin, 
Frary go to the Governour’s to comfort Him and strengthen 
his Hands, seeming to be extreamly concerned. I vindicated 
Mr. Stoughton, being the Senior Magistrate, all that ever I 
could; but I question whether it takes much place or no. Mr. 
Addington entered nothing, and professed before the Council 
that was so surprized and ’twas a sudden Gust, that scarce 
knew what he said: and all say "twas extream sudden and 


34 SEWALL’S DIARY 


tumultuous: I perceiv Sundry Oaths are taking, what avail 
they’ll be of as to things done in Court, I know not. 

Thorsday, April 1, 1686. Mr. Shrimpton comes before the 
Council, gives in a Paper shewing that March 22. he did say 
there was no Governour and Company in being in this place, 
which he still did averr, and was ready to prove if called to it. 
Council adjourned to April 15% and the Essex Magistrates 
writt to, to be here. Mr. Shrimpton said he never did dis- 
own a Government here, but honoured them. Mr. Secretary 
in writing the Letter writt Henry, in stead of Samuel. Am 
afraid little can or will be done, we shall only sentire nos mori; 
for Governour seemed to own before the People that the Char- 
ter was vacated in England, and insisted upon a Proclamation 
sent him: And the Deputy Governour said the Government 
must not be tumbled down till his Majesty call’d for it, or to 
that purpose: Such discourses and arguings before the People 
do but make us grow weaker and weaker. Said ’twas voided 
as much as London’s; and they durst not since hold a Comon 
Council. 

Thorsday, Apr. 15. After Lecture the Court meets, Mr. 
Shrimpton sent for, Evidences sworn. Considered how to 
hear him, as County Court, I voted for the County Court, and 
three more, or Assistants. When some were for Satterday, 
others for next Thorsday: first carried it because of Major 
Appleton and Pike: so Juries to be summoned then to appear. 
Mr. Shrimpton would not take any blame to himself as to 
substance of what had said, and pleaded that might be heard 
by the County Court, else refused to give Bond to appear. The 
Deputy Governour said his Case was Capital, which Mr. 
Stoughton earnestly spake against. In the hurry Deputy Gov- 
ernour Adjourned the Court, bid the Marshal Generall look 
to Mr. Shrimpton; Marshal Generall required a Warrant 
which Secretary would not grant because the Court Ad- 
journed: So Mr. Shrimpton under no obligation to appear. 
Boston to chuse Jury-Men for the County Court, Friday 3 


SEWALL’S DIARY es 


aclock all under one [ballot] and read the Nomination-Bill. 
This Thorsday 15. April, Capt. Ephraim Savage’s Maid is 
known to have the Small Pocks, to the great saddening of the 
‘Town, besides all our other Deaths. 

Warrants run for the Jury to appear 17 Inst. at 8 aclock 
mane to try a Case that concerns Limb, Life, or Banishment; 
and for a Grand jury. Doubt the terms of the Warrant ex- 
tream inconvenient. 

Thorsday, 15. April, pomerid. ‘The Companies warned to 
Train. News is brought by Mary-Land that Mr. Randolph 
alone was come for N. England. Am told a Letter from Mr. 
Ive of Dec. 10. saith was then in the Downs waiting for a 
wind. So that the Report that the Devil Kirk was coming (as 
was said the Mariners called him) now abates. 

Satterday, April 17, 1686. After much discourse an In- 
dictment is drawn up, the Grand jury find the Bill per Pen 
Townsend, Foreman. Mr. Shrimpton appears not: so an At- 
tachment ordered to goe out for him against next Thorsday, 
upon which the Marshal is to take Bond of him with Sureties 
of 1000. which if refuse to give, to carry him to prison. The 
Towns sent to as far as Weymouth sent their Jury Men very 
soon Satterday Morn; which was to me a very rare sight, see- 
ing the warrants to arrive a Thorsday night. Mr. Stoughton 
and Dudley call’d here. Mr. Stoughton said would not come 
again till after the Election, [if it] should make me lose all my 
Votes. 

Sabbath, Apr. 18. Capt. Ephr. Savage puts up a Bill to 
have God’s hand sanctified in sending the Small Pocks into 
his Family. 

Thorsday, Apr. 22. Court Assistants. Mr. Shrimpton 
gives no Bond, but is sent to Prison, Marshal did not light on 
him before. In the afternoon pleads against the illegality of 
the Indictment it having no Date: which suppose will be 
granted; is dismissed tonight on ’s Parol to appear tomorrow. 
Acknowledged was ashamed of the manner of ’s behaviour in 


36 SEWALL’S DIARY 


the Country Court, but stood to the Substance, that no Gov- 
ernour and Company. 

May 10%. Went to Charlestown and wished Mr. Cotton 
Mather Joy, was married last ‘Tuesday. 

Monday, 10 May, Night and Tuesday Morn, plenty of 
warm refreshing Rain which was extremly wanted. 

Tuesday Morn. Mr. Mather’s Maid, a Member of 
[blank] Church is brought to Bed of a Child. Nothing sus- 
pected before that I hear of. Tis said He has turn’d her out 
of ’s House. 

Friday, May 14. The Rose-Frigot arrives at Nantasket, 
Mr. Randolph up at Town about 8 mane: takes Coach for 
Roxbury: Major Pynchon and Mr. Stoughton are sent to the 
Magistrates to acquaint them with the King’s Commands be- 
ing come, and that Mr. Deputy, with whom he pleased to 
take with him, might go to Capt. Paige’s and see the Com- 
mission, Exemplification of the Judgment and Seals. Mr. 
Shrimpton in the morn was sent for and told, by reason of the 
Governour’s absence, and other business, should not now pro- 
ceed with his Tryal, and that the Court would be adjourned 
and he should be acquainted with the time. Had a small Ad- 
miralty Case. Jury dismissed after Dinner. Major Pynchon 
has not took his Oath, I saw him not till came in with Mr. 
Stoughton. 

Satterday, May 15. Gov". Hinkley, Major Richards, Mr. 
Russell and Self sent to by Major Dudley to come to Capt. 
Paige’s, where we saw the Exemplification of the Judgment 
against the Charter, with the Broad Seal affixed: discoursed 
about their acceptance: had some thoughts of shewing their 
Seals to the Magistrates and Deputies, though not to them as 
a Court; but before we returned, the Magistrates were gone 
to the Governour’s and from thence they adjourned till Mon- 
day one aclock. Major Generall came home and dined with 
me. Went to George Monk’s and paid him in full, drank 
half a pint of Wine together. 


SEWALL’S DIARY aa 


Monday, May 17 1686. Generall Court Sits at One 
aclock, I goe thither, about 3. The Old Government draws 
to the North-side, Mr. Addington, Capt. Smith and I sit at 
the Table, there not being room: Major Dudley the President, 
Major Pynchon, Capt. Gedney, Mr. Mason, Randolph, Capt. 
Winthrop, Mr. Wharton come in on the Left. Mr. Stough- 
ton I left out: Came also Capt. [of] King’s Frigot, Gov’. 
Hinkley, Gov’. West and sate on the Bench, and the Room 
pretty well filled with Spectators in an Instant. Major Dud- 
ley made a Speech, that was sorry could treat them no longer 
as Governour and Company; Produced the Exemplification of 
the Charter’s Condemnation, the Commission under the Broad- 
Seal of England—both: Letter of the Lords, Commission of 
Admiralty, openly exhibiting them to the People; when had 
done, Deputy Governour said suppos’d they expected not the 
Court’s Answer now; which the President took up and said 
they could not acknowledge them as such, and could no way 
capitulate with them, to which I think no Reply. When gone, 
Major Generall, Major Richards, Mr. Russell and Self spake 
our minds. I chose to say after the Major Generall, adding 
that the foundations being destroyed what can the Righteous 
do; speaking against a Protest; which some spake for. Spake 
to call some Elders to pray tomorrow which some think in- 
convenient, because of what past, and the Commissioners hay- 
ing several times declared themselves to be the King’s Council 
when in the Town-House. 

Wednesday, May 19. Capt. Eliot tells me that he hears 
Salem Troop is to be here on Friday, Capt. Higginson is Mr. 
Wharton’s Brother in Law, and Capt. Gedney is of Salem, 
commands one of the Companyes. Mr. Higginson and Mr. 
Noyes steady for Submission; the former is the Captain’s 
Father. My Son reads to me Isa. 22 in his course this morn- 
ing. In the Afternoon Major Richards and Self sent for to 
Capt. Winthrop’s and desired to have our Companyes in Arms 


38 SEWALL’S DIARY 


next Tuesday, Boston Troop to bring the President from Rox- 
bury; what was thought of the former notion is now laid aside. 

Friday, May 21, 1686. The Magistrates and Deputies goe 
to the Governour’s. I was going to them about 11. aclock, 
supposing them to be at the Town-House, and seeing a head 
through the Governour’s Room, and, Brisco in the Street, I 
asked if Magistrates there; so went in and they were dis- 
coursing about delivering the Keys of a Fort which had been 
asked, seemed to advise him not to do it till the Gentlemen 
Sworn. Mr. Nowell prayed that God would pardon each 
Magistrate and Deputies Sin. “Thanked God for our hithertos 
of Mercy 56 years, in which time sad Calamities elsewhere, as 
Massacre Piedmont; thanked God for what we might expect 
from sundry of those now set over us. I moved to sing, so 
sang the 17. and 18. verses of Habbakkuk. 

The Adjournment which had been agreed before, Second 
Wednesday in October next at 8 aclock in the Morning, was 
declared by the Weeping Marshal-Generall. Many ‘Tears 
Shed in Prayer and at parting. 

This day the President goes on Board the Frigot a little 
below the Castle, so the Flagg is hung out at the Main Top. 
About 4. or 5. P. M. She comes up with a fair wind, Castle 
fires about 25 Guns; a very considerable time after the Frigot 
fires, then the Sconce and Ships, Noddles Iland, Charlestown 
Battery, Frigot again, Ships with their Ancients out, and Forts 
their Flaggs. Not very many Spectators on Fort Hill and 
there about, I was for one, coming from the Warehouse. I 
waited on the President in the morn to speak with him, and so 
accompanied Him to Town. Wednesday, Major Richards 
and I were sent for to Capt. Winthrop’s to speak with us about 
attending with our Companyes on Tuesday; this was near 
night. Were advised to consult our Officers; Major Richards 
objected the discontent of the Souldiers and may be it might 
prove inconvenient. On Thorsday, before Lecture, at Capt. 
Paige’s, I told the President thought I could do nothing to 


SEWALL’S DIARY 39 


the purpose: On Friday waited on him on purpose and pro- 
pounded Lieut. Hayward: when came home, after Dinner 
went to speak with Lieut. Hayward, found him at George’s. 
There he was speaking with his Capt., the President having 
spoken to him; he was to return an Answer to the President. 
I hear no more of it, so I suppose ’tis left with him. On 
Wednesday Major spake of warning by Corporals not Drum. 

Satterday, June 5%. I rode to Newbury, to see my little 
Hull, and to keep out of the way of the Artillery Election, on 
which day eat Strawberries and Cream with Sister Longfellow 
at the Falls, visited Capt. Richard Dummer, rode to Salem, 
where lodged 2 nights for the sake of Mr. Noyes’s Lecture, 
who preached excellently of Humility, from the woman’s wash- 
ing Christ’s feet. Was invited by Mr. Higginson to Dinner, 
but could not stay. 

Friday, June 11. Waited on the Council, took the Oath of 
Allegiance, and rec’d my new Commission for Capt. Was be- 
fore at a privat Fast at Deacon Allen’s: so Capt. Hutchinson 
and I went about 5. aclock, and all the rest were sworn, Capt. 
Hutchinson at present refuses. I read the Oath myself hold- 
ing the book in my Left hand, and holding up my Right Hand 
to Heaven. 

Friday, June 18. My dear Son, Hull Sewall, dyes at New- 
bury about one aclock. Brother Toppan gets hither to acquaint 
us on Satterday morn between 5 and 6. We set out about 8. 
I got to Newbury a little after Sun-set, where found many 
persons waiting for the Funeral; so very quickly went; Mr. 
Woodbridge and Richardson there: Bearers Mr. Sam!. Tomp- 
son, Jn° Moodey, Jn®° Toppan, Johnny Richardson. Had 
Gloves. Gave no body else any because ’twas so late. 

Sabbath-day Morn. Goodman Pilsbury was buried just 
after the ringing of the second Bell. Grave dugg over night. 
Mr. Richardson Preached from 1 Cor. 3, 21.22, going some- 
thing out of ’s Order by reason of the occasion, and singling 


out those Words Or Death. 


40 SEWAL LE SUDLART 


On Monday I distributed some Gloves, and in the After- 
noon about 6 aclock came with Deacon Coffin to Salem about 
10 at night. From thence early in the Morn by reason of the 
flaming Heat, and got to Winnisimmet before the Ferry-men 
up, Got home about 34 after seven, found all well. Hullie 
was taken ill on Friday Morn. Mr. Clark of Cambridge had 
a Son of 9 years old drowned the Tuesday before. Two 
women dy’d suddenly in Boston. James Mirick that lived just 
by my Father at Newbury, had his House suddenly burnt down 
to the Ground on Sabbath-day Even before this Friday. 

‘The Lord sanctify this Third Bereavement. 

July 27, 1686. Mr. Stoughton prayes excellently, and 
makes a notable speech at the opening of the Court. The 
Foreman of the Grand-Jury, Capt. Hollbrook, swore laying 
his hand on the Bible, and one or two more. So Mr. Ballard, 
Foreman of the Petit Jury, and one or two more. Others 
swore lifting up their hands, as formerly. Attorneys are sworn 
and none must plead as Attorneys but they. 

July 28. <A considerable Troop from Watertown come and 
fetch Mr. Bayly, some of ours also accompany them. Francis 
Stepney the Dancing Master runs away for Debt. Several 
Attachments out after him. 

Friday, Augt. 20. Read the 143, 144 Psalms mane, and 
Sam Read the 10 of Jeremiah. I was and am in great exer- 
cise about the Cross to be put into the Colours, and afraid if 
I should have a hand in ’t whether it may not hinder my En- 
trance into the Holy Land. 

Sabbath-day, Augt. 22. In the Evening seriously discoursed 
with Capt. Eliot and Frary, signifying my inability to hold, 
and reading Mr. Cotton’s Arguments to them about the Cross, 
and sayd that to introduce it into Boston at this time was 
much, seeing it had been kept out more than my Life-time, and 
now the Cross much set by in England and here; and it could 
scarce be put in but I must have a hand in it. I fetcht home 
the Silk Elizur Holyoke had of me, to make the Cross, last 


SEWALL’S DIARY 41, 


Friday morn; and went and discoursed Mr. Mather. He 
judged it Sin to have it put in, but the Captain not in fault; 
but I could hardly understand how the Command of others 
could wholly excuse them, at least me who had spoken so much 
against it in April 1681, and that Summer and forward, upon 
occasion of Capt. Walley’s putting the Cross in his Colours. 
Augt. 22. Balston arrives. 

Monday, Augt. 23. At even I wait on the President and 
shew him that I cannot hold because of the Cross now to be 
introduc’d, and offer’d him my Commission, which he refus’d, 
said would not take it but in Council. Receiv’d me very can- 
didly, and told me we might expect Sir Edmund Andros, our 
Governour, here within six weeks; for ought I know that 
might make him the more placid. Came over the Neck with 
Mr. Sherman. Laus Deo. 

Friday, Sept’. 3. Mr. Shrimpton, Capt. Lidget and others 
come in a Coach from Roxbury about 9. aclock or past, sing- 
ing as they come, being inflamed with Drink: At Justice Mor: 
gan’s they stop and drink Healths, curse, swear, talk profanely 
and baudily to the great disturbance of the Town and grief 
of good people. Such high-handed wickedness has hardly been 
heard of before in Boston. 

Thorsday, Nov’. 11. I deliver my Commission to the Coun- 
cil, desiring them to appoint a Captain for the South-Com- 
pany; left it with them to put ’em in mind on’t. As was com- 
ing home Capt. Hill invited me to his House where unexpectly 
I found a good Supper. Capt. Hutchinson, ‘Townsend, 
Savage, Wing and sundry others to the number of 14 or 15, 
were there. After Supper sung the 46% Ps. 

Nov’. 18. Jn° Neponet, alias Nemasit, executed. Mr. Eliot 
hopes well of him. 

This day sent for my Coat home from Capt. Gerrishes, 
where I suppose I left it the 25° May, and now the cold 
wether made me look after it. 


Friday, Nov’, 19, Went to Capt. Gerrish and paid him 


42 SEWALL’S DIARY 


18d., which laid out for crying my Coat, from thence Eliakim 
calls me to Mr. Moodey, so we together viewed the Eclips. As 
to the time and digits the Cambridge Almanack rightest; had 
he not unhappily said ’twould not be visible. Clouds hindered 
between whiles that could not so well see how much the 
Moon eclipsed, but when near half darkened, and when emerg- 
ing, had a good view. 

This night Eliza Damon, servant to Nash the Currier, dyes 
about midnight of the small pocks, to our great startling, lest 
it should spread as in 1678. Had hop’d the Town was clear 
of it. But one that I know of dyed on’t before, and that a 
great while since. 

Monday, Nov’. 29. This day W™ Clendon the Barber and 
Perriwig-maker dies miserably, being almost eat up with Lice 
and stupified with Drink and cold. Sat in the watch-house 
and was there gaz’d on a good part of the day, having been 
taken up the night before. 

Dec’. 8, 1686. Going to Cambridge-Lecture, a little beyond 
Daniel Champney’s I saw a Rainbow to the North, being just 
about Noon: only Here. Simons with me just then; but Capt. 
Eliot and Mr. Tho. Oliver saw it, with whom rid over the 
Causeys. Mr. Oliver said he had not before noted a Rainbow 
in the North. Cloud rose suddenly very black and hail’d after- 
ward. Ministers pray together at Boston this day. 

Sabbath, Dec’. 19, 1686. Day of the Fort-fight. As I was 
reading the Exposition of Habakkuk 34, which this morn sung 
and read in the family, I heard a great Gun or two, as I sup- 
posed, which made me think Sir Edmund might be come; but 
none of the family speaking of it, I held my peace. Going to 
Mr. Bradstreet’s, Tho. Baker told me Sir Edmund was below, 
which Winchcomb and Brisco confirmed; said they saw the 
Frigot with the Flagg in the main Top, and sundry gon down. 
President and Deputy come to Town; President comes and 
hears Mr. Willard, whoes Text was Heb. 11. 12. Therefore 
sprang there of one &c. 113. Psalm sung. Mr. Willard said 


SEWALL’S DIARY 43 


he was fully persuaded and confident God would not forget 
the Faith of those who came first to New England, but would 
remember their Posterity with kindness. One Doct. Faith 
usually reaps the greatest Crops off the barrenest Ground. Be- 
tween Sermons, the President and several of the Council goe 
down. Mr. Lee preaches with us in the Afternoon from Zech. 
Bm0.F 10! 

Monday, Dec’. 20, 1686. Governour Andros comes up in 
the Pinace, touches at the Castle, Lands at Gov’. Leveret’s 
wharf about 2 P. M. where the President, &c. meet him and 
so march up through the Guards of the 8 Companyes to the 
Town House, where part of the Commission read: He hath 
power to suspend Councillors and to appoint others if the num- 
ber be reduced to less than Seven. He and Council to make 
Laws. ‘Then took the Oath of Allegiance and as Governour, 
then about eight of the Council sworn. Court clear’d. Gov- 
ernour stood with his Hat on when Oaths given to Council- 
lours. It seems speaks to the Ministers in the Library about 
accommodation as to a Meeting-house [for church services], 
that might so contrive the time as one House might serve two 
Assemblies. 

Last Satterday, Mr. Cook not prosecuting his Appeal, Pos- 
session was given by Major Bulkly and Marshal Green, of 
the Farm to Capt. Paige and his wife. “The Constables were 
ordered this day to come and take new Staves, little thinking 
the Government should have been before altered, or at this 
time. Mr. Nath. Oliver was the person first spyed the Frigot 
under sail about 7 mane Sabbathday, knowing her by the 
Flagg; he went to Capt. Davis, Capt. Davis to the President. 
Governour was in a Scarlet Coat Laced; several others were in 
Scarlet. Mr. Bradstreet and Mr. Danforth there, to meet the 
Governour at the Wharf. At Dinner Mr. Mather crav’d a 
Blessing. “The day was serene, but somewhat cold. Major 
Richards made the South-Company change their Colours for 
the 88 Colours. Andrew Gardner led them. 


44. SEWALL’S DIARY 


Tuesday, Dec’. 21. There is a meeting at Mr. Allen’s, of 
the Ministers and four of each Congregation, to consider what 
answer to give the Governour; and ’twas agreed that could 
not with a good conscience consent that our Meeting-Houses 
should be made use of for the Common-Prayer Worship. 

Dec’. 22. Kings-fisher comes up but neither salutes the 
Castle nor the Town. In the evening Mr. Mather and Wil- 
lard thorowly discoursed his Excellency about the Meeting- 
Houses in great plainess, showing they could not consent. 
This was at his Lodging at Madam Taylor’s. He seems to say 
will not impose. 

Friday, Dec’. 24. About 60 Red-Coats are brought to 
‘Town, landed at Mr. Pool’s Wharf, where drew up and so 
marched to Mr. Gibb’s house at Fort-hill. 

Satterday, Dec’. 25. Governour goes to the Town-House to 
Service Forenoon and Afternoon, a Red-Coat going on his 
right hand and Capt. George on the left. Was not at Lecture 
on Thorsday. Shops open today generally and persons about 
their occasions. Some, but few, Carts at Town with wood, 
though the day exceeding fair and pleasant. Read in the morn 
the 46. and 47. of Isa., and at night Mr. Norton from Jn° 9.3. 
Neither this Man nor his Parents. 

Thorsday, Dec’. 30. The Council meets. Gentlemen from 
Plimouth and Rhode-Iland here and take their Oaths with- 
out any Ceremony, perhaps for sake of the Quakers, who have 
promised to deliver up their Charter. Mr. Lee preaches the 
Lecture from Isa. 4. 5, 6. But the Governour and most of the 
Councillours absent. Mr. Stoughton, Gov’. Hinkley, Mr. 
Usher and some other at Lecture. 

Friday, Jan. 7. I went to Capt. Winthrop’s upon business, 
and the Governour happen’d to be there, Capt. Winthrop had 
me up to him, so I thankfully acknowledged the protection 
and peace we enjoyed under his Excellencie’s Government. 
Capt. Wing waited on him at the same time about a Man slain 
at Worster yesterday by a Logs rolling upon and over him 


SEWALL’S DIARY 45 


which he just before had cut off. Capt. Davis carries his wife 
out of Town for fear of the Small Pocks, she being with Child. 
This day Dame Walker is taken so ill that she sends home my 
Daughters, not being able to teach them. 

‘Tuesday, January 18, 1686. Between two and three in the 
Afternoon, for near an hour together, was seen in a clear Skie 
such a Rainbow, Parelions and Circles as ware on January 2. 
16845. In the night following falls a snow, not much. I was 
at the North-end when I first saw it. People were gazing at 
it from one end of the Town to tother. 

Thorsday, January 20. Mr. Lee preaches the Lecture Eccles 
7. 13. From whence exhorted to quietness under God’s hand: 
about middle of Sermon fire was cry’d, which made a great dis- 
turbance, by many rushing out. Iwas only a chimney I 
think. Spake of the inverted Rainbow, God shooting at some- 
body. And that our Times better than the former, and ex- 
pected better still, Turks going down, a sign on’t: Jews call’d, 
and to inhabit Judea and old Jerusalem. 

Sabbath, January 30% 168%. About 34 past eight at night 
my wife is delivered of a Son, Eliza. Weeden, Midwife. Was 
fine moderate wether though had been very severe for near a 
week together before. My wife sent not for the Midwife till 
near 7. at night. But one staid at home with her, though was 
not well most part of the day. The child large, so my wive’s 
safe delivery is much to be heeded, considering our former 
fears. “Iwas much another had not intercepted the Midwife, 
to whom went from us. 

Feb. 6, 1686. Between 3. and 4. P. M. Mr. Willard bap- 
tiseth my Son, whom I named Stephen. Day was Louring 
after the storm, but not freezing. Child shrunk at the water 
but cried not. His Brother Sam. shew’d the Midwife who car- 
ried him, the way to the Pew, I held him up. Thomas Bum- 
sted was baptiz’d at the same time. “This day the Lord’s Super 
was administered at the middle and North Meeting-Houses; 


46 SEWALL’S DIARY 


the ratling of the Guns during almost all the time, gave them 
great disturbance. *I'was never so in Boston before. 

Feb. 15, 168%. Jos. Maylem carries a Cock at his back, 
with a Bell in’s hand, in the Main Street; several follow him 
blindfold, and under pretence of striking him or ’s cock, with 
great cart-whips strike passengers, and make great disturbance. 

Friday, 22. ‘Two persons, one array’d in white, the other in 
red, goe through the Town with naked Swords advanced, 
with a Drum attending each of them and a Quarter Staff, and 
a great rout following as is usual. It seems ’tis a chaleng to be 
fought at Capt. Wing’s next Thorsday. 

Satterday, Ap. 23. Eight Companies Train: Many per- 
sons: some officers have red paper Crosses fastened to their 
Hats. ‘The Governour rode by and among the Souldiers, ac- 
companied by the President, Mr. Davie and others. Major 
Lidget the Chief Commander, Col. Shrimpton, he, and Lus- 
comb on Horse-back. Gave a Volley or two on the Comon, 
march’d out about one aclock to the Market place. ‘The Rose 
fired and others. Companies gave three Vollyes, broke off 
about 3. in the afternoon. In the night a Bonfire or two were 
made on Fort-hill. After followed fire-works with Huzzas, 
ended about 11. or 12. 

Monday, Apr. 25. Another Challenge goes with his naked 
Sword through the Street with Hitchborn Drummer, and a 
person carrying a Quarter-Staff. 

May 26. Marshal Green visits me, and tells that he is 
wholly left out of all publick employment. Sam!. Gookin 
Sheriff for Middlesex. Said Green told me he knew not of it 
till today, and that he was undone for this world. It seems 
the May-pole at Charlestown was cut down last week, and 
now a bigger is set up, and a Garland upon it. A Souldier 
was buried last Wednesday and disturbance grew by reason of 
Joseph Phips standing with ’s hat on as the Parson was read- 
ing Service. "Tis said Mr. Sam!. Phips bid or encouraged the 
Watch to cut down the May-pole, being a Select-Man. And 


SEWALL’S DIARY 47 


what about his Brother and that, the Captain of the Fisher and 
he came to blows, and Phips is bound to answer next Decem- 
ber, the Governour having sent for him before Him yester- 
day, May 26. 1687. 

Friday, May 27, between 5. and 6. Father Walker is taken 
with a Lethargy as was shutting up his shop to goe to their 
privat Meeting: His left side was chiefly struck with a kind of 
Palsy: His speech came to him something between 6. and 7. 
He told me there was plenty of Lavander in the Town where 
he was Prentice. He overheard some discourse about the 
May-Pole, and told what the maner was in England to dance 
about it with Musick, and that ’twas to be feared such prac- 
tices would be here. “Told me he had been liable to be over- 
taken with Sleep for three-score years, and that ’twas his Bur- 
den which he something insisted on. Had a blistering plaister 
to his neck, Drops of Lavander in ’s mouth and his neck chaf’d 
with Oyl of Amber. 

Wednesday, June 22. Went to Muddy-River. Mr. Gore 
finishes compassing the Land with his plain Table; I do it 
chiefly that I may know my own, it lies in so many nooks and 
corners. Went to Cambridge-Lecture. 

June 28, 1687. Went to Roxbury and heard Mr. Cotton 
Mather preach from Colos. 4. 5. Redeeming the Time. 
Shew’d that should improve Season for doing and receiving 
good whatsoever it cost us. His Excellency was on the Neck, 
as came by, call’d Him in and gave Him a glass of Beer and 
Claret and deliver’d a Petition respecting the Narraganset 
Lands. 

July 1, 1687. Went to Hog-Iland; had Eliakim thither: 
went to see where to make a Causey to land handsomly: 
brought home a Basket of Cherries: As went, saw a Surveyor 
with two red-coats, and another measuring and surveying 
Noddles-Iland. Came home about % hour after four aclock. 
About 6. aclock Abigail Saunderson is buried, who died yes- 
terday. 


48 SEWALL’S DIARY 


July 8. Carried my wife to Cambridge to visit my little 

Cousin Margaret, they were going, so went to Mr. Leverett’s 
Chamber, the Library, Hall, Sir Davenport and Mitchel’s 
Chamber, and so home well, blessed be God. Little Stephen 
hath a Tooth cut two or three dayes agoe. 
_ Monday, July 11. I hire Ems’s Coach in the Afternoon, 
wherein Mr. Hez. Usher and his wife, and Mrs. Bridget her 
daughter, my Self and wife ride to Roxbury, visit Mr. Dud- 
ley, and Mr. Eliot, the Father, who blesses them. Go and 
Sup together at the Grayhound-Tavern with boil’d Bacon and 
rost Fowls. Came home between 10. and 11. brave Moon- 
shine, were hinder’d an hour or two by Mr. Usher, else had 
been in good season. 

Tuesday, July 12. I go to Mr. Usher’s about 5. mane, 
Wan having been here: about 7. or eight we goe on Board, the 
Ship being under Sail. Go with them to Alderton’s Point, and 
with our Boat beyond, quite out of the Massachusetts Bay, and 
there catch’d fresh Cod. Went to Nantasket, in which way 
lost my hat, and for fear of running the Boat on the Rocks, 
left it. From Nantasket, in less than an hour and half sail’d 
home between 7. and eight. Goe in the Ship Mr. Wharton, 
Sam. Newman, Mr. Charles Morton, Mr. Wooddrop, Mrs. 
Bridget Usher, and her Daughter Mrs. Bridget Hoar, and 
others. Had an extraordinary good wind. Mr. Usher wept 
at taking leave of ’s Wife and Daughter. Before went from 
Mr. Usher’s, Mr. Moodey went to Prayer in behalf of those 
going to sea, and those staying behind, in a very heavenly 
manor. 

Satterday, July 16. At night a great Uproar and Lewd 
rout in the Main Street by reason of drunken raving Gamar 
Flood, came from about Wheeler’s pond, and so went by our 
“House into Town. Many were startled, thinking there had 
been fire, and went to their windows out of Bed between 9. 
and 10. to see what was the matter. 

Monday, July 18. Was startled in the morn as was at 
prayer in the Kitchen, at a sudden unusual noise; which prov’d 


0 ee a ee a a ae 


SEWALL’S DIARY 49 


to be two Cows running into our little Porch; the like to 
which never fell out before, that I know of. 

July 18. Mr. Mather had two Venice Glasses broken at 
our Meeting. 

Tuesday, July 26, 1687. About Nine aclock my dear Son 
Stephen Sewall expires, just after the Judges coming to Town; 
died in his Grandmother’s Bed-Chamber in Nurse Hill’s Arms. 
Had two Teeth cut, no Convulsions. Mr. Willard pray’d 
with him in the Morning, Mr. Moodey coming in when at 
Prayer. 

Wednesday, July 27, 1687. Between 6. and 7. after Noon, 
The Body of my dear Son Stephen is carried to the Tomb by 
Jn° Davie, Sam!. Willard, Joseph Eliot and Samuel Moodey. 
Samuel Clark and Solomon Rainsford put him into Tomb. 
Sam. had the head; Solomon’s foot, on a loose brick, slipt, and 
he slid down the steps and let go the Coffin; but the end rested 
upon Jony’s stone set there to show the Entrance, and Sam. 
held his part steadily; so was only a little knock. I led my 
wife, Brother Stephen led Mother Hull, Sam. led Hanah, 
Billy Dumer led Betty, Cous. Quinsey led his wife, Cous. Sav- 
age and Dummer went together. Got home between 7. and 8. 
Mr. Torrey visited us but could not stay the Funeral. Sam. 
and his sisters cryed much coming home and at home, so that 
could hardly quiet them. It seems they look’d into Tomb, and 
Sam said he saw a great Coffin there, his Grandfathers. 

Augt. 24, 1687. Bartholomew-day. Indulgence for Liberty 
of Conscience published here. 

Augt. 25. Mr. Mather preaches from the 5*® verse of Jude, 
shewing that persons deliver’d, yet through Unbelief left to 
eminent Judgments. Praised God for the Liberty good People 
enjoy in England. Said, ’tis marvellous in our Eyes. Mr. 
Dudley tells me His Father and Mr. Stoughton are petitioning 
for Patents. After Lecture, I visit Mr. Benjamin Eliot, who 
is much touch’d as to his Understanding, and almost all the 
while I was there kept heaving up his Shoulders: would many 


50 SEWALL’S DIARY 


times laugh, and would sing with me, which did; he read three 
or more staves of the Seventy first Psalm, 9 verses, his Father 
and Jn° Eliot singing with us; Mr. Benjamin would in some 
notes be very extravagant. Would have sung again before I 
came away but ’s Father prevail’d with him to the contrary, 
alledging the children would say he was distracted. Came 
with me to the Gate when took horse. 

Friday, Sept. 9. Mr. Cook and I set out for Portsmouth. 
Dine with Brother Sewall at Salem, call on Mr. Phillips. 
Lodge at Brother Gerrishes. 

Satterday, call on Major Pike at Mr. Wears, of Hampton, 
stay a good while. Our Horses well baited, in this time the 
Judges got before us, overtook them at the Ordinary at Diner. 
Din’d with them at the Sheriff’s cost. Went, But Mr. Cook 
and I cast behind by alighting to take off our Coats, so rode 
alone till overtook Mr. Hutchinson, who staid for us. Went 
into Town another way than they did, so miss’d of the Invita- 
tion and lay at the Ordinary in the Porch of the great Chamber 
alone. 

Monday, Sept. 12. The Court sits. Our case is deferr’d 
till March next. Was no Declaration filed, no Jury out of 
the Province of Main, and we had no time to provide. Court 
was kept at Partridge’s and there we dine at Sheriff’s cost 
again, unwittingly. Lodge at Mr. Vaughan’s. 

Tuesday, 13%. Breakfast at Mr. Grafford's. After, a Fel- 
low plays Tricks. Cook, Hutchinson and Self ride to Bloody 
Point, so to Hilbon’s point over the Ferry; visited Mr. Pike 
while Mr. Hutchinson and Broughton came over; Boat would 
not carry all. Mr. Pike not at home, but his wife and two 
Sons. Call’d at Major Waldron’s, where Mr. Cook lodg’d, 
but Hutchinson and Self rode to the Salmon-falls, George 
Broughton being our Guide, who was accidentally at Otisses. 
Lodge at W™ Love’s in a very good House and Bed. 

Wednesday, See the Mill, get a Cut, visit Mrs. Rainer and 
her Daughter Broughton. Breakfast there. Ride into Swamp 


Pe 


SEWALL’S DIARY fei 


to see a Mast drawn of about 26 Inches or 28; about two and 
thirty yoke of Oxen before, and about four yoke by the side 
of the Mast, between the fore and hinder wheels. *I'was a 
very notable sight. Rode then to York, through very bad way, 
Jn° Broughton Pilot. Saw Mr. Sawyer’s singular Saw-mill. 
Lodg’d at Cous. Dumer’s with Mr. Martin. Rode to Wells 
on Thorsday 15*, to view the Records. Din’d at the Ordinary, 
(call’d at Mr. Wheelrights in the way.) Then I rode with 
Jn° Broughton to the Salmon-falls, got thether about 8; Lodg’d 
at Love’s. 

Friday 16. See Hobs his Hole, Quamphegen. Stay a little 
at George and Jn° Broughton’s: by then at Capt. Wincoll’s; 
by this time Mr. Cook come. Din’d at Wincoll’s. Came to 
Hampton, by that time "twas dark. Supped there, then to 
Newbury. Mr. Cook and I lodge at Brother Gerrishes. 

Satterday, 17. Ride homeward. Dine at Mrs. Gedney’s: 
whether send for my Brother. Major sends a Letter by me 
to his Excellency: we ride round by Charlestown, and get 
home between 7. and 8. finding all well, blessed be God. Note, 
The Friday we set out, at night, a Shallop riding at anchor in 
the Sea was run over by a Brigantine, and two Men drown’d. 

Tuesday, Oct. 4. Take a view of the Meadow, ride to 
Jcseph Morse’s; set an H on a sear Pine, which said Morse 
shewed me that it was certainly our Bound-Tree, and another 
little green Pine with Stones at the Roots. It wet, and so rode 
heme. This Night Horse breaks out. 

Wednesday, Oct. 5. Ride near round the Farm, Goodm. 
Holbrook shewing me the Bounds in Company of Joseph Moss 
and Moses Adams. 

Thorsday, Oct. 6. Joseph Moss and Goodm. Whitney shew 
me the Stone-wall, what was wanting to finish it, that so the 
Meadow might be secured. About Noon my Unkle and 
Goodm. Brown come from Braintrey. On my Unkle’s Horse 
aiter Diner, I carry my wife to see the Farm, where we eat 


Aples and drank Cider. Shew’d her the Meeting-house. In 


‘shes SEWALL’S DIARY 


the Even Capt. Prentice’s Negro brings my Horse. In the 
Morn Oct. 78 Unkle and Goodm. Brown come our way home 
accompanying of us. Set out after nine, and got home before 
three. Call’d no where by the way. Going out, our Horse 
fell down at once upon the Neck, and both fain to scrabble 
off, yet neither receiv’d any hurt. Laus Deo. 

Oct. 17, 1687. Weare Arrives, in whom comes the Gover- 
nour’s Lady. Lands about eleven aclock at Forthill; Takes 
Coach in the narrow way that leads by Mr. Gillam’s; Gov- 
ernour, his Lady and one more ride together. Many Guns 
fired. Mr. Stoughton here. 

Oct. 18. Carried Mother Hull behind me to Roxbury- 
Lecture; Mr. Joseph Eliot preached. Mr. Stoughton, Moodey, 
Allen, Hobart, Brown and Self there. House not very full 
because of the rawness and uncertainty of the day. Got home 
about 14 hour after Three. Belcher arrives this day, who it’s 
said is Deputy to Sir W™. Phipps, Provost Marshal. Mr. 
Eliot said the King was turn’d a Puritan, and he was ravish’d 
at it; supose twas from something he had heard as to som 
Nonconformists, Aldermen and Lord Mayor. As came home 
from Roxbury, I met the Governour’s Lady riding in her 
Coach hitherward. “The same day the Governour’s Lady 
arriv’d, word came that Capt. Phips was Knighted, so have 
two Ladies in Town. 

Friday, Oct. 21. I went to offer my Lady Phips my House 
by Mr. Moodey’s, and to congratulate her preferment. As to 
the former, she had bought Sam. Wakefield’s House and 
Ground last night for 350£. I gave her a Gazett that related 
her Husband’s Knighthood, which she had not seen before; 
and wish’d this success might not hinder her passage to a greater 
and better Estate. Gave me a cup of good Beer, and thank’d 
me for my Visit. 

Oct. 27. Mr. Joseph Eliot preached the Lecture from 1 
Cor, 2. 2. parallels the diseases of New England with Corinth; 


i ee es 


ae ee 


SEWALL’S DIARY 53 


among others mentions itching ears, hearkening after false 
‘Teachers, and consequently sucking in false Principles, and 
despising, sitting loose from the true Teachers. Advis’d to fly 
into the Arms of a crucifi’d Christ, because probably might 
have no whether else to goe. This morn, Mr. Sims thanks 
me for my kindness to Goodm. Huchins. 

Wednesday, Jan. 11%. Sam. falls ill of the Measles: Joshua 
Gee, come in Capt. Legg, visits me, and returns thanks for my 
kindness to him when Captive in Algier. 

Thorsday, Jan. 12. Eliakim falls ill of the Measles. Joshua 
Gee dines with us. Mr. Allen preaches the Lecture. 

Friday, Jan. 13. Betty Lane falls sick of the Measles. Get 
Mehetabel Thirston to help us. Sabbath only Mother and 
self at Meeting: Betty vomits up a long worm: Mehetabel goes 
home sick. 

Friday, Jan. 13. Joshua Gee with Joseph Bridgham, Jn° 
Barnard and Dyar, come to agree with me what I must have 
for my Money disbursed in London: said Gee presents me with 
a pair of Jerusalem Garters which cost above 2 pieces 8-8 
[Spanish dollars] in Algier; were made by a Jew. 

Friday, Jan. 20. Coming from Charlestown Lecture, I saw 
Mr. Wears Ship lying on her Larbord side, fell so on Wednes- 
day by reason of Melasses between Decks, as she lay at Scarlet’s 
Wharf. Are now by Boats and empty Buts trying to right 
her again. Is much damage to Sugar that was laden, the 
water coming into her: besides what damage the Ship may re- 
ceive. Many people looking at this odd sight. ‘This is the 
Ship my Lady [Andros] arriv’d in, Oct". 17" and in which 
Mr. Mather hath bespoke his passage for London. 

Satterday, Jan. 21. My dear Daughter Hanah is put to 
bed, or rather kept in Bed, being sick of the Measles. Droop’d 
ever since Thorsday. 

Sabbath, 22°. Hanah’s Measles appear very full in her face: 
had a restless night, read in course the 38t* Psalm. My Lady 
Andros was prayed for in Publick; who has been dangerously 


54. SEWALL’S DIARY 


ill ever since the last Sabbath. ‘Today I hear that Mr. Brown 
of Salem, the Father, dyed on Friday last in the afternoon. 
One of a Dutch Church in London is admitted to the Lord’s 
Supper with us. About the beginning of our afternoon Exer- 
cise, the Lady Andros expires. 

Monday, Jan. 23. The Measles come out pretty full on my 
dear Wife, which I discern before I rise. She was very ill in 
the night. 

Tuesday, Jan. 24. Betty Sewall keeps her Bed; but is not 
so full as her Sister Hanah. Capt. Nicholson sat with me an 
hour or two on Monday night. 

Tuesday, Jan. 24t*. About noon, the Physician tells me the 
Measles are come out in my face, and challenges me for his 
Patient. 

Jan. 31. Mr. Randolph, in his Action against Mr. Increase 
Mather, is cast. Mr. Hale being subpcena’d by Mr. Randolph, 
pleaded he might not lay his hand on the Bible; must Swear 
by his Creator, not Creature. ”Iwas granted that he only lift 
up his Hand as customary in New England. Col. Shrimp- 
ton lent Mr. Mather his Coach to ride home: He abode there 
the time of the Tryal, to be at hand if need were. 

Friday, Feb. 10, 168%. Between 4. and 5. I went to the 
Funeral of the Lady Andros, having been invited by the Clark 
of the South Company. Between 7. and 8. (Lychus [Lynchs? 
i. e., links or torches] illuminating the cloudy air) The Corps 
was carried into the Herse drawn by Six Horses. ‘The Soul- 
diers making a Guard from the Governour’s House down the 
Prison Lane to the South-Meetinghouse, there taken out and 
carried in at the western dore, and set in the Alley before the 
pulpit, with Six Mourning Women by it. House made light 
with Candles and Torches. Was a great noise and clamor 
to keep people out of the House, that might not rush in too 
soon. I went home, where about nine aclock I heard the Bells 
toll again for the Funeral. It seems Mr. Ratcliffs Text was, 
Cry, all flesh is Grass. The Ministers turn’d in to Mr. Wil- 


a a a a ~.. im sgn” eee 


SEWALL’S DIARY fei 


lards. The Meeting-House full, among whom Mr. Dudley, 
Stoughton, Gedney, Bradstreet, &c. “Iwas warm thawing 
wether, and the wayes extream dirty. No volley at placing the 
Body in the Tomb. On Satterday Feb. 11, the mourning cloth 
of the Pulpit is taken off and given to Mr. Willard. My 
Brother Stephen was at the Funeral and lodged here. 

March 28, 1688. Capt. Davis spake to me for Land to set 
a Church on. I told him could not, would not, put Mr. Cot- 
ton’s Land to such an use, and besides, ’twas Entail’d. After, 
Mr. Randolph saw me, and had me to his House to see the 
Landscips of Oxford Colledges and Halls. Left me with Mr. 
Ratcliff, who spake to me for Land at Cotton-Hill for a 
Church which were going to build: I told him I could not, 
first because I would not set up that which the People of N. E. 
came over to avoid: 2%. the Land was Entail’d. In after dis- 
course I mentioned chiefly the Cross in Baptism, and Holy 
Dayes. 

March 30, 1688. Obadia Gill, John Atwood and Joseph 
Davis are by a Writt from the Sheriff imprisoned, because they 
paid not the 13* 4¢ which each was fined, Feb. 8., for not laying 
their Hand on the Bible: Judgment run thus—refusing to take 
the Oath as by Law is required. “Though they offer’d to take 
the same Oath, the oath the others did, that Ceremony set 
aside. “They pay the Fine and charges and Ly not in Prison 
one night. Mr. Larkin sought after Mr. Mather this week to 
Arrest him. Mr. Mather on Tuesday was taking Physick and 
so was free, and since hath purposely avoided him. 

Satterday, March 31. I, Daniel Maio and another hand 
plant Six Chestnut Trees at Hog Iland. 

Ap. 2, 1688. Mr. Robert Sanderson rides with me to 
Neponset and gives me Livery and Seisin of his 8th of the pow- 
der-mill Stream, Dwelling-House and Land on each side the 
River, Mr. Jn°. Fayerwether, Desire Clap, and Walter Ever- 
enden, witnesses, having the Deed there and exhibiting it, 
when he gave me Turf, Twigg and Splinter. Mr. Thacher’s 


56 SEWALL’S DIARY 


Son, Tho., dies this morn. Lodge at Unkle Quinsey’s with 
Cous. Dan!. Gookin, who has a Son born last Satterday. 

Satterday, Apr. 7** 1688. Capt. Arthur Tanar sails about 
10 aclock, a shallop follows quickly after, which ’tis said is to 
prevent Mr. Mather’s getting on Board: ’tis certain all the 
Town is full of discourse about Mr. Mather. Carie sails a 
little after. Many Guns fired at Madam Craven’s going off. 

Friday, March 30. I am told Mr. Mather left his House 
and the Town and went to Capt. Phillips’s at Charlestown. 

Apr. 13, 1688. Grafted a Stock next Jn° Wait’s, pretty 
high out of the Cows reach, with cions from Mr. Moodey’s 
Orange Pear, and grafted Two Apletree Stocks with Mr. 
Gardener’s Russetings; the Cow having eaten last year’s 
Grafts all save one Twigg. Mr. Moodey, Willard, Cotton 
Mather, Capt. Townsend, Mr. Eyre were here last night. It 
seems Mr. Watter and Elisha Odlin were fined last Wednes- 
day, 13. 4%., apiece, for refusing to lay their hand on the Bible 
in Swearing. 

April 18. The news about Lima’s Ruine comes abroad. Mr. 
Cotton Mather mentions it on the 19%" at the Lecture. Above 
60.000 persons perished, and now there is a Pool of Water 
where it stood, if the news be true. 

May 10. Mr. Dudley and his Son call here. I speak to 
him about the mode of swearing, if no remedy might be had, 
of which had no encouragement, but said Lifting up the Hand 
was the handsomest way. 

May 23, Wednesday, 1688. Went to Hog-Island with 
Brother Stephen Sewall, Brother Topan and Sam. Shepard: 
Upon the Hill we agreed that Sam. Topan should be bound to 
Brother Stephen for five years from September next, to be 
bound to Brother only during his Life. Brother Topan chose 
it rather than that he should be bound to a Trade as a Taylor, 
or the like; Hopes by going to Sea or the like after his Time 
is out, may get a livelihood. 


Monday, May 28. News comes of his Excellency lying at 


\ 


SEWALL’S DIARY 57 


Newbury last night, so sundry Gentlemen ride out to meet 
Him coming home this day. 

Wednesday, May 30. Eliakim sets forth with his Brother 
Williams for Conecticut. Mr. Joseph Eliot here, says the two 
days wherein he buried his Wife and Son, were the best that 
ever he had in the world. 

Friday, June 1, 1688. Went to Watertown Lecture in 
Company of Mr. Moodey and Capt. Townsend. Text 1. Cor. 
11.31. If we would judge, &c. Mr. Dudley, Blackwell, Mr. 
Danforth, Councillor Usher, Mr. Russel Graves, and many 
more there, Madam Phipps for one, who was ready to faint at 
word was brought in by the Coach-man of Sir William’s being 
spoke with at Sea. By that time we got home, we heard that 
Sir William came in his Pinace from Portsmouth this day. 
Many of the Town gone to complement Him. 

June 22. I goe to Hogg-Island with Mr. Newgate to see 
if could agree about his Marsh: Father Griggs and Saml. 
‘Townsend there. When came back, went and bid Sir William 
welcome to Town, who landed an hour or so before me, being 
come with his Frigot from Portsmouth. ‘This day Mrs. Joyliff 
and Mrs. Grecian goe to his Excellency, and expostulat with 
Him about his Design of meeting first on Sabbath-days in our 
Meetinghouse. 

Satterday, June 23. Capt. Frary and I goe to his Excel- 
lency at the Secretaries Office, and there desired that He would 
not alter his time of Meeting, and that Mr. Willard consented 
to no such thing, neither did he count that ’twas in his power 
so to doe. Mr. West said he went not to ask Mr. Willard 
Leave. His Excellency asked who the House belong’d to; we 
told Him the Title to the House was on Record. His Excel- 
lency turned to Mr. Graham and said, Mr. Attorney we will 
have that look’d into. Governour said if Mr. Willard not the 
Parson, so great an Assembly must be considered. We said He 
was Master of the Assembly, but had no power to dispose of 
the House, neither had others, for the Deed expressed the Use 


58 SE WAL LOS Div AR 


twas to be put to. Governour complain’d of our long staying 
Sabbath-day senight; said twas the Lord’s Supper, and [he] 
had promised to go to some other House on such dayes; Mr. 
Randolph said he knew of no such promise, and the Governour 
seemed angry, and said He would not so break his word for 
all the Massachusetts Colony, and therefore, to avoid mistakes, 
must give in writing what we had to say; we answered, Mr. 
Randolph brought not any writing to those he spake to. Gov- 
ernour said we rent off from the old Church against the Govy- 
ernment, and the Land the House stood on was bought 
clandestinely, and that one should say he would defend the 
work with his Company of Soldiers. Mention’d folks back- 
wardness to give, and the unreasonableness; because if any 
stinking filthy thing were in the House we would give some- 
thing to have it carried out, but would not give to build them 
an house: Said came from England to avoid such and suck 
things, therefore could not give to set them up here: and the 
Bishops would have thought strange to have been ask’d to con- 
tribute towards setting up the New-England Churches. Gov- 
ernour said God willing they would begin at Eight in the 
Morning, and have done by Nine: we said ’twould hardly be 
so in the winter. Mr. Graham said if they had their Service 
by Candle-Light what was that to any: And that the Service 
appointed by the Church for morning could not be held after 
Noon. 

Thorsday, July 12. Mr. Jn° Hubbard tells me there is a 
Writt out against me for Hog-Island, and against several 
other persons for Land, as being violent intruders into the 
Kings Possession. George Keith [a Quaker] doth this day 
send a Challenge to the 4 Ministers of Boston, in an open 
letter by Edward Shipen, to dispute with them about the false 
Doctrine they delivered. Wild arrives, 9 weeks from the 
Downs; Mr. Bromfield comes in him. 

Satterday, July 14 Jeremiah Belcher comes and brings me 
the Information Mr. Sherlock left with him on Thorsday last 


SEW AIL IG WS Ai TARA, 59 


in the Afternoon, when he served on him a Writt of Intru- 
sion. I try’d to goe to the Island yesterday but could not, wind 
and Tide being against me, and one Oar broke. Went from 
Winisimmet to the Point, but none fetch’d me over. Wind is 


out [from the east], and so Sir William comes up and Capt. 
Belcher. 


To Sir Edmund Andros Knight, Capt. General and Governour in 
Chief of His Majesties Territory and Dominion of New-Eng- 
land in America, the humble Petition of Samuel Sewall of 
Boston, Sheweth. 


That whereas your Petitioner stands seized and possessed of a 
certain Island or Islands, comonly called and known by the name of 
Hogg-Island, lying scituat near Boston aforesaid, in the present 
tenure and occupation of one Jer. Belcher, having been peacably and 
quietly possessed by your Petitioner and his Predecessors for the 
space of fourty years or upwards by past: And whereas the said 
Belcher hath been lately served with a Writt of Intrusion at His 
Majesties Suit, And your Petitioner not being willing to stand Suit, 
but being desirous of His Majesties Confirmation for the said Island 
or Islands: 

He therefore humbly prays your Excellencies favour that he may 
obtain His Majesties Grant and Confirmation of the said Hogg- 
Island, with the members and Apurtenances thereof, unto your Peti- 
tioner his Heirs and Assigns forever under the Seal of this His 
Majesties Territory. To be holden of His Majesty, His Heirs and 
Successors, upon such moderat Quit-Rent as your Excellency shall 
please to order. 

And your Petitioner shall ever pray. 

SAM SEWALL. 


Presented the above written Petition to the Governour with 
my own hand July 24 1688. 

July 26%. *I’was read in the Council, and an order made 
upon it for a Survey. 

Monday, July 30%. With many others I went to Dedham 
to accompany his Excellency in his way to New-York and 
Jersy: who goes to take the Government of those places. 

Thorsday, Augt. 9. Mr. Moodey, Willard, Mather, 
Capt. ‘Townsend here, Mr. Thacher was here before. ‘This 


60 SEWALD SS) DIARY 


day I goe for Mrs. Weeden, my wife having been ill a week 
or more, and now ready to conclude her time to Travail was 
come. Midwife staid and went to Bed here; in the night was 
call’d away by another woman about 2. mane. It seems the 
Monday the Governour went hence towards New-York, Five 
Indians were killed at Spectacle Pond not far from Spring- 
field, four taken Captive, two escaped. They that did the 
Murder are some of our late Enemies who have since lived 
under the protection of the French. 

Sabbath, Augt. 12. My wife stayes at home as last Sabbath, 
but that Mother goes to Meeting and the Children only bear 
their Mother Company: who hath much pain, yet holds up 
still. 

Augt. 14, 1688. About 1% hour past Nine at Night Stephen 
Greenleaf comes in and brings my Mother Sewall; they set 
sail from Newbury about 10. in the morning, had a brisk Nor- 
west Gale, turn’d up from Dear-Island and lay aground a 
pretty while before they could fleet in. Cous. Greenleaf sups 
with Mother. I give him the Catechise, Day of Doom, &c. 
bound together in a good Cover, in part for Mother’s passage. 

Wednesday, Augt. 15. About 4. mane, I rise to make a 
fire, and to call the Midwife, Charlestowns Bell rung for 5. 
as came away from Mrs. Weeden’s House. Very cool day. 
My Wife is brought to Bed of a Son between 8. 9. while the 
Service-Bell was ringing. ous. Anne Quinsey first tells me 
of it. 

Thorsday, 16. Put up a Bill for Thanksgiving. About 9. 
in the night news comes from Salem, by a Vessel from Hol- 
land, that the Queen was deliver’d of a Prince, June 10%. So 
from 11. to 1. or 2. is Drumming, Bonfire, Huzas, small and 
great Guns, Ringing of Bells, at which many startled for fear 
of fire or an Alarm; because the thing was so sudden, People 
knew not the occasion. 

Sabbath, Augt. 19 1688. Town is full of the news of 5. 
English persons killed at Northfield; So the Councillors sent 


SEWALL? S) DIARY 61 


for; and by that means Mr. Stoughton at our House in the 
afternoon to hear Mr. Willard, who after Sermon, baptized 
my young Son, whom I named Joseph, in hopes of the accom- 
plishment of the Prophecy, Ezek. 37 and such like: and not 
out of respect to any Relation, or other person, except the first 
Joseph. The Lieut. Governour goes this day to Woburn to 
secure some Indians there, now busied in gathering Hops. It 
seems were met together and praying when secured, or just 
before. 

Friday, Augt. 24. I carried my Mother over Winisimet 
Ferry to Salem, there met with Mr. Noyes. Left my Horse 
at Salem and came home in Mr. Grafton’s Sloop the Lark. 
Loosed from the Wharf at Winter-Island about 4. P. M. and 
got into my own House at Boston about 11. at night. Wind 
was East if not somewhat Southerly, so, very bare till we got 
past Marblehead Neck. Had Moon-shine. The Widow 
Bordman, and Mr. Kitchin’s daughter by Mary Bordman, 
came Passengers, Landed at Scarlet’s Wharf. Got to Salem 
about noon. Left my Horse for Mother to goe to Newbury. 

Wednesday, Augt. 29. Mr. Torrey comes to our House, 
Mr. Sherman there at the same time, who hath bespoke a 
passage for England in Mr. Gillam. When he was gon Mr. 
Torrey and I had pretty much Discourse together about Eng- 
land and going thether. I had been wishing to speak with him. 

Thorsday, Sept. 6%. The Duke of Albemarl’s Yott arrives, 
fires in Lecture time. In the even Mr. Cotton Mather comes 
and prayes with my little sick Joseph. 

Sept. 7. Visit sick Tho. Gardener, the son, bespeak 3 
Barrels of Aples of the Father and Andrew; goe to Simon 
Gates’s, from thence to Cambridge to see my little cousin Mar- 
garet; visit Mr. Brattle, and then Mr. Leverett, Fellows of 
the Colledge. Come home and find my own Child somewhat 
better as is hop’d. 

Sept. 15, 1688. Corrected Sam. for breach of the 9t® Com- 


62 SEW ALLS aDecAcRo 


mandment, saying he had been at the Writing School, when 
he had not. 

Sept. 17** I speak to Mr. Gillam for a passage in his Ship. 
This day Capt. Frary sees a Souldier with an Indian Squaw 
in the Com and open Sun. 

Sept. 198 The rain hinders my going to Salem, and so to 
Newbury. Eldridge comes in, who sais the Amsterdam Gazett 
reported that Mr. Mather’s Petition is granted, said Eldridge 
sais that one Ales was come out of the Downs, who brings Mr. 
Palmer of New-York, Chief Judge of the Teritory of New 
England. 

Sept. 20. Mr. Lee preaches from Ezek. 47. 11. Shew’d 
that Edom was on the South side of Asphaltites, and probably 
they would not be converted. Jews understood it of Italy, 
called that Edom. This a Prophesy of the great abundant en- 
largement of the Church not yet accomplished, ’twas now 
hastening; but then also, some wicked hardened Wretches. Had 
not heard of an Edomite converted; though that of the 10% 
Generation implied there might be such a thing. Mr. Mather’s 
last Sermon was on the same Text. Pray’d for Bristow before 
and after Sermon. 

Sept. 21, 1688. This day I ride to Newbury with Mr. 
Lorie and Penhallow, to visit my friends, and ask them about 
my going for England; met with my fellow-Travailers at Mr. 
Moodey’s by accident the night before. Brother Stephen there 
with whom I Lodge. Visit Mr. Wodbridge and Mrs. Noyes. 

Monday, Sept. 24%. Come to Brother Moodey’s and dine 
with him, his wife, Mother and James Noyes; then Brother 
brings me going to Rowley-Mill; I call at Mr. Payson’s; 
drive a Nail in Mr. Gerrishes Meetinghouse, gave 2%. Visit 
Mr. Higginson. 

Sept. 25. Visit Mr. Nath!. Mather, sick at Salem at Mr. 
Swinerton’s. Come home in Company Major Gedny and 
Brown, a very fair wind over, went in and drunk at Brookins, 
came home and found all well, blessed be God, 


SEWALL’S DIARY 63 


Satterday, Sept. 29". Lydia Moodey comes hether to dwell, 
helping my wife to nurse the Child Joseph. 

Monday, Oct. 1. A Whiping Post is set up by the middle 
Watch-house. Brother Stephen visits us. 

Wednesday, Oct. 3°. Have a day of Prayer at our House: 
One principal reason as to particular, about my going for Eng- 
land. Mr. Willard pray’d and preach’d excellently from Ps. 
143. 10:, pray’d. Intermission. Mr. Allen pray’d, then Mr. 
Moodey, both very well, then 34.—7' verses of the 86 Ps., 
sung Cambridge Short Tune, which I set. Then had Gov’. 
Bradstreet and his wife, Mr. Moodey and wife, Mr. Allin 
and Mr. Willard and wife, Cous. Dumer and wife, and Mrs. 
Clark her sister, Cousin Quinsey and wife and Mrs. Scottow, 
should have reckon’d formerly Mother Hull and Self. My 
wife was so lately very ill of the Ague in her face, she could 
not come down out of the Chamber. Fifteen sat down to- 
gether. Mr. Addington, Mr. Eyre, Capt. Townsend and 
several others here beside the Meeting. 

Friday, Oct. 5. Mrs. Anger of Cambridge is buried: Was 
Sister to Mrs. Topan of Newbury. Went to Mrs. Williams’s 
Meeting where Mr. Moodey preached. About 9. night, 
Thomas, an Indian and very usefull Servant of Mr. Oliver, 
hang’d himself in the Brewhouse. 

Satterday, Oct. 6. The Coroner sat on him, having a Jury, 
and ordered his burial by the highway with a Stake through his 
Grave. 

Wednesday, Oct. 10° Went on Board the America, Mr. 
Isaac Addington one of the Owners, introducing me: took up 
the Starboard Cabbin, and when came back, met Capt. Clark 
and gave him Earnest 208; then went to Mr. Moodey’s to a 
Meeting. At night read in course the Seventh of the Romans. 
Received a Letter from Mr. Taylor this day, and writt to him 
before I had received it. Both of us concluded alike from 
Joseph’s Blessing, Deuteronomy. 


64 SEWALL’S DIARY 


Tuesday, Oct. 16. Little Hanah going to School in the 
morn, being enter’d a little within the Schoolhouse Lane, is rid 
over by David Lopez, fell on her back, but I hope little hurt, 
save that her Teeth bled a Little, was much frighted; but went 
to School; one Stebbin took her in, who lives next Solomon 
Rainsford’s Shop up the Lane, on the left hand as goe up. This 
day the Ground-Sills of the Church are laid; the stone founda- 
tion being finished. Visit Cousin Dummer sick abed. 


Wednesday, Oct. 24, 1688. Mr. Bayly and his wife, Mr. 
Moodey and his wife and Cous. Richard Dumer dined with 
us. In the afternoon coming out of Town, I met Mr. Ratcliff, 
who ask’d me if I were going for England; he ask’d when, I 
said in Capt. Clark. He pray’d God Almighty to bless me, and 
said must wait upon me. Capt. Clark tells me at the Coffee- 
House, that he will sail next week, or Monday come senight 
at out-side. 

Monday, Oct. 29. Went to Hogg-Island, had Sam., Hanah 
and Betty thether, Mr. Oliver’s two daughters, Mr. Johnson’s 
daughter, Mr. Balston’s daughter: Mr. Oliver himself went; 
Sam! Marshall and his boy carried us. Landed at the Point 
because the water was over the Marsh and Wharf, being the 
highest Tide that ever I saw there. Cous. Savage came and 
din’d with us on a Turkey and other Fowls: had a fair wind 
home, Landed at Gibbs his Wharf, got home about Sun-set. 
Visited Mr. Smith who lies very ill. 

Oct. 30. We have the news of Herbert Wanton and Blagg 
being cast away on the Isle of Pines. Very high Tide to day, 
in so much I feared ’twould have carried away the Island-Dam, 
and sent on purpose to see: All was firm and sound, blessed be 
God. | 

Wednesday, Oct. 31. Went to the Funeral of Mrs. Gookin: 
Bearers, Mr. Danforth, Mr. Russell, Sewall and Hutchinson, 
Eliakim, Mr. James Taylor, and Mr. Edw. Bromfield. Note. 
The Tide was over the Causey, and Mrs. Willard, whom Mr. 
Pain carried, fell into the water, so that she was fain to goe to 


SEWALL’S DIARY 65 


Bed presently in stead of going to the Grave, the Horse verg’d 
to the right, till fell into the Ditch. Mr. Hutchinson’s Coach- 
Horses also plung’d. 

Joshua Gee Lanches to day, and his Ship is called the Prince. 
Bant sails. Capt. Clark treats his Owners and Passengers: I 
was invited but the Funeral took me up. I help’d to ease the 
Corps into the Grave. Mr. Torrey goes home. More mis- 
chief done at the Eastward by the Indians. Mr. Alden dis- 
patch’d again with Souldiers. 

Satterday, Nov. 3. Mr. Offy and Mr. Clark come and 
speak to me about laying in for the Cabbin. Yesterday was 
Cous. Quinsey’s Meeting where Mr. Moodey preach’d. 

Nov. 7. Brother Stephen comes to Town and brings my 
Letter of Attorney and other writings. I go with him to the 
Governour’s where the witnesses are sworn, and after that I 
ask his Excellency if He has any service for me to Hampshire 
or Coventry: He ask’d where; I said in England. He said 
none in particular; Ask’d whom I went in; said in Capt. Clark. 
He said ’twas very well, and passed away out of the Porch. 

Noy. 16. The Upholsterer tells me the Ship is loaden too 
much by the head and sails badly. About 11 M. The Widow 
Glover is drawn by to be hang’d. Mr. Larkin seems to be 
Marshal. The Constables attend, and Justice Bullivant there. 

Satterday, Nov. 17. Brother Stephen and I with Mr. Pole 
and Capt. Clarke goe on Board the America. It rained before 
we got aboard, and all the way as we came from the Ship; 
had a glass of good Madera. Brother comends the Ship, dines 
with us and returns to Salem. 

Thorsday, November 22, 1688. Set sail out of Boston 
Harbour about an hour by Sun, with a very fair wind. Friday, 
Nov. 23, mane, the wind came up at North-East to our great 
discomfort. Beny Harris reads the 21 of the Proverbs, which is 
the first Chapter I heard read on Shipboard. I much heeded 
that verse, He that wandereth out of the way of Understand- 
ing shall remain in the Congregation of the dead. At night I 


66 SEWALL’S DIARY 


read the first of thé Ephesians, and go to prayer. Saturday, 
Nov. 24, wind holds North-East, we go away East-South-East 
and the like, hoping to shape clear of Nantucket Shoals. Mr. 
Clark reads the two first Chapters of Isaiah, and Capt. Clarke 
prayes. Sabbath, Nov. 25, Strong East wind. In the even 
reef the Mainsail. I read the 74% Psalm, being that I should 
have read at home in the family. Read four or five verses out 
of Dr. Manton on the first of James: very suitable for me. 
Sung the 234 Psalm. Monday, Nov. 26, sail generally East- 
South-East. Mate takes an Observation, and finds that we are 
in the Latitude of 40° and 13™. ‘Tuesday Nov. 27, sail East- 
South-East, and sometimes East and North. Ait my wives 
Pastry, the remembrance of whom is ready to cut me to the 
heart. The Lord pardon and help me. Wednesday, Nov. 28, 
rains hard in the morning, the other Tack is brought on board, 
and we sail North-North-East. Just at night the wind blows 
very hard, just in our teeth, so ly by under the Mizzen, the 
other sails being furled. Scarce any sleeping all night, things 
in the Cabbin were so hurled to and again. ‘Thursday, Nov. 
29, wind comes up at North, or thereabouts, so steer East-N.- 
East. This is the first day of a fair wind since our coming 
out; goe away with fore-sail on our course. Clouds and no 
observation. About 12 at night, the Ship being under a hard 
Gale of wind, the whipstaf is somehow loosed from the Goose- 
neck, which puts us into great consternation: and the word is 
given, Turn out all hands. Several go into Gunroom and steer 
there for awhile, and by God’s blessing no great harm. Some 
of the men said if she had not been a stiff ship would have been 
overset. Friday, Nov. 30, one Cassemate being left down and 
the wind astern, a Sea is shipped into the Cabbin to our great 
startling and discomfort. Mrs. Baxter, who lay athwart ships 
at the bulkhead, the most wet. Very high wind and by flaws, 
we ly under our foresail not quite hoisted, and sail East. ’Tis 
a very laborious day by reason of hail, snow, wind and a 
swoln sea all in a foaming breach. A little before night the 


SEWALL’S DIARY 67 


foresail is reefed, and Main Top-Mast took down to prepare 
for the tempestuous night, which proves very stormy, sore 
flaws of wind and Hail. Satterday, Decemb. 1, wind very high, 
frequent storms of Hail and Rain in fierce Gusts. About an 
hour by sun we are put into great confusion, the iron of the 
Whipstaff coming out of the said Staff. Some goe down and 
steer below, but fain at last to take in the foresail and ly by 
till the staff was fitted. The good Lord fit us for his good 
pleasure in this our passage. 

Sabbath, Dec. 2, goe with our fore courses, and just before 
night hoist the Top-sail, sailing East-N.-E. Read out of Dr. 
Preston and Manton, prayed and sung Psalms. Monday, 
Dec. 3, calm in the morn for some hours, then a South-west 
wind and Top-sails out. Rain at night. Reef the Mainsail 
because now the wind very high. Caught two Petterils which 
Mr. Clark intends to preserve alive. Note, my Erasmus was 
quite loosened out of the Binding by the breaking of the water 
into Cabbin when it did. Was comforted in the even by read- 
ing the 4. 5. 6. 7. verses especially of the Ephesians. About 8 
at night the Mate tells me he saw three Corpressants, upon 
the top of each mast one. “Tuesday, Dec. 4. mane, a violent 
North-East storm rises, so all sails taken in and ly by: very 
troublesome by reason of the frequent seas shipt and throwing 
the things in the Cabbin into confusion. Mrs. Mar [c ?]y’s 
Chest broken and her things powred out. I put on a clean 
shirt this morn. Can’t dress victuals to day. Wednesday, 
Dec. 5, wether is moderated: but the wind so contrary that we 
sailed E.S.E. and South-East. ‘Thorsday, Xr. 6 wether is 
comfortable, but wind, E.N.E., so we sail N. or N. and by 
West. Mrs. Baxter is taken ill with a Flux. Kill a Shoat. 
Friday, Dec. 7‘, very fair day: sail N. East. Breakfast on 
one of my wives Plum Cakes. Read Dr. Preston, Sains Sup- 
port of sorrowful Siners. One of the Geese dyes yesterday, or 
to day. Mrs. Baxter is better. 

Satterday, Dec. 8, yery mild wether. Sail N.E. and E.N.E, 


68 SEWALL’S DIARY 


In the afternoon veer’d out about 100 Fathom of Line, but 
found no bottom. Suppose ourselves very near the Banks of 
New-found-Land, by reason of the multitude of Gulls. Guner 
trims me. Sabbath, Dec. 9. South, and South-w. wind; very 
temperat whether. Just at night Rain and N.W. wind. Cloudy 
all day. Monday. Dec. 10% North Wind. ‘Tuesday, Dec. 11. 
N. and N. and by W. Pleasant wether. Last night I prayed 
to God and was somewhat comforted. This day the Cap- 
tain takes a List of ’s Letters. Wednesday, Dec. 12. West 
wind. Very pleasant wether. ‘Thursday, Dec. 13. Strong 
S.W. wind. Ship runs between 6 and 7 Knots. Cloudy, dusky 
day. Friday, Dec. 14, Fast wind. See Birds, and a number of 
Fishes called Bottle-noses. Some say they are Cow-fish, or 
Black-fish. Satterday, Dec. 15. N.W. wind. Very pleasant 
morn. A little before night is a calm, after that the wind 
comes up at South-East, or thereabouts. Sail East N. East. 

Sabbath, Dec. 16. Very high wind and swoln sea, which 
so tosses the ship as to make it uncomfortable; wind after, so 
Cabbin shut up and burn Candles all day. Shifted my Linen 
this day, Shirt, Drawers, N. Wastcoat, Binder: only fore 
course [four courses?] to last with. Monday, Dec. 17. 
Strong N.W. wind. ‘Tuesday, Dec. 18, wind N. N. West: 
many flaws: storms of Hail. Afternoon was a Rainbow. 
Killed the Sheep to day. Dream’d much of my wife last night. 
She gave me a piece of Cake for Hannah Hett; was in plain 
dress and white Apron. Methoughts was brought to bed, and 
I through inadvertency was got up into the upermost Gallery, 
so that I knew not how to get down to hold up the Child. We 
are in about 48° N. Latitude. 

Wednesday, Dec. 19, pleasant, west and southwest wind. 
Have an Observation. "Was a Rainbow in the morn, and in 
the even Mr. Sampson set the Sun by the Compass. ‘This 
morn was refreshed in prayer trom the Instance of Jonah and 
God’s profession of ’s readiness to give his Spirit to those who 
ask, 


SEWALL’S DIARY 69 


Thorsday, Dec. 20, strong North wind. Are in 48 D. 36, 
M. Lat. At night the wind veers a little to the Eastward of 
the North. 

Friday, Dec. 21. Little wind and that is Northerly. See 
many Porpuses. I lay a [wager] with Mr. Newgate that shall 
not see any part of Great Britain by next Saterday senight 
sunset. Stakes are in Dr. Clark’s hand. In the night wind at 
North-East. Satterday, Dec. 22, wind is at North-East, at 
night blows pretty fresh. ‘This day a Ganet was seen, and a 
Purse made for him that should first see Land, amounting to 
between 30 and 40%. N. England Money. I gave an oblong 
Mexico piece of Eight. Starboard Tack brought on board, 
and sail, N. E., N.N.E. and North by E. 

Sabbath, Dec. 23. Pretty strong East, N. East wind. Sail 
N. and by E. Saw a Ship about noon some two Leagues to 
Leeward of us. A Ganet seen this day. “Towards night the 
Capt. scunds and finds a sandy bottom. ‘The water between 
70 and 80 Fathoms deep. 

Monday, Dec. 24, wind remains right in our Teeth. See 
a Ship to Leeward most part of the day which stood the same 
way we did: but we worsted her in sailing. ‘Tuesday, Dec. 25, 
see two Ships, one to windward, ’tother to Leeward. About 
10, m. a Woodcock flies on board of us, which we drive away 
essaying to catch him. Wind at North-East. Ly by under the 
Mainsail all night. Wednesday, Dec. 26. ‘This morn per- 
ceive the Rails of the Ships head and the Lion to be almost 
beaten off, which cost considerable time and pains to fasten 
again. Ly by with no Sails. A Rainbow seen this day. 
Thorsday, Dec. 27, begin to sail again a little, winding East, 
N. East. Friday, Dec. 28, wind contrary, yet keep sailing 
sometimes N. East, sometimes goe South and by West upon 
the other Tack. Saw three Ships in the Afternoon, which, 
suppose are bound for England as we are. Satterday, Dec. 29. 
Have an Observation; are in 49 and 50". See a Ship. 

Sabbath, Dec. 30°. Spake with a Ship 7 weeks from Barba- 


70 SEWALL’S DIARY 


dos, bound for London, tells us he spake with an English Man 
from Galloway, last Friday, who said that the King was dead, 
and that the Prince of Aurang [Orange] had taken England, 
Landing six weeks agoe in Tor-Bay. Last night I dreamed 
of military matters, Arms and Captains, and, of a suddain, 
Major Gookin, very well clad from head to foot, and of a very 
fresh, lively countenance—his Coat and Breeches of blood-red 
silk, beckened me out of the room where I was to speak to me. 
I think ’twas from the Town-house. Read this day in the 
even the Eleventh of the Hebrews, and sung the 46 Psalm. 
When I waked from my Dream I thought of Mr. Oakes’s 
Dream about Mr. Shepard and Mitchell beckening him up 
the Garret-Stairs in Harvard College. Monday, Dec. 30%, 
contrary wind still, speak with our Consort again Tuesday, 
Jan. 1. [1689.] speak with one who came from Kenebeek [?] 
in Ireland 8 day’s agoe: says there are Wars in England. Pr. 
of Aurang in Salisbury Plain, with an Army Landed with 
fourscore and 5 Men of War and above two hundred Fly 
Boats, has took Plymouth and Portsmouth, &c. and is ex- 
pected at London daily. Read Hebrews 13° Wednesday, 
Jan. 2. Last night about 12 aclock the Wind comes fair, so 
that by morning the word was, Steady, Steady. “The Lord fit 
us for what we are to meet with. Wind veered from East to 
South, and so Westerly. This day eat Simon Gates’s Goose. 
Thorsday, Jan. 3, wind comes East again. A gray Linet and a 
Lark, I think, fly into the Ship. Friday, Jan. 4, wind not very 
fair. Some say they saw a Robin-Redbrest to-day. Satterday, 
Jan. 5%, wind is now come to be about Southwest. Sounded 
and found a red, blackish sand about 50 Fathoms deep. Have 
a good Observation. ‘This day I finished reading Dr. Manton. 
Blessed be God who in my separation from my dear Wife and 
family hath given me his Apostle James, with such an Expo- 
sition. Page 8. Honour God in your houses, lest you become 
the burdens of them, and they spue you out. “The tendernes of 


SEWALL’S DIARY 71 


God’s Love! He hath a James for the Xns. of the scattered 
‘Tribes. 

Satterday, Jan. 5° 1688 [9] Sounded twice to day. Found 
50 Fathom first, then about 70. odd. Wind Souwest. A flock 
of Sparrows seen today. Psa. 84, or some such small Birds. 

Sabbath, Jan. 6. See Capt. James Tucker, Comander of the 
Betty of London, about 120 Tons, whom spake with, this day 
sennight. Saith he saw the Light of Silly last Thorsday night. 
We carry a light and keep company. Monday, Jan. 7, Mr. 
Clark goes on Board our Consort, and brings Oranges and a 
Shattuck [shaddock]. So steer in the night E. and East and 
by South. We had no Observation. Capt. Tucker saith he 
had by a forestaff, and Latitude 49.30. Reckons we shall be 
abrest with the Lizard by morning. Wind So west. ‘Tuesday, 
Jan. 8, mane, a brisk west wind. We sound and have 55 
fathom: speak with our Consort, who saith he had Lizard 
Soundings, and would now have us steer East and by N. They 
were a little to windward of us, and a little astern. By and 
by they all gathered to their Starboard side, and looking toward 
us made a horrid Outcry, Land! Land! We looked and saw 
just upon our Larboard Bow, horrid, high, gaping Rocks. Mr. 
Clark imagined it to be the French Coast. We asked our 
Consort. He said, Silly! Silly! Trim’d sharp for our Lives, 
and presently Rocks all ahead, the Bishop and Clarks, so were 
fain to Tack, and the Tack not being down so close as should 
be, were afraid whether she would stay [not miss stays]. But 
the Seamen were so affected with the breakers ahead that the 
Mate could not get it altered, or very little. But it pleased 
God the Ship staid very well, and so we got off and sailed in 
Bristow Channel toward Ireland, winding Nore, N. West, 
and N.N.W., westerly. Just when saw the Rocks it cleared a 
little, and when fix’d in our course thicken’d again. Blessed 
be God who hath saved us from so great a Ruin. Saw the 
Light-House, that look’d slender, about the height of a man, 
and a Rock with a cloven top, not altogether unlike a Bishops 


he SEWALL’S DIARY 


Mitre, which I therefore take to be the Bishop. Wind would 
have carried us between Silly and the Lands End, but durst 
not venture and could not speak to our Consort, who probably 
knew better than we. And we Tacking, he Tacked. 


Tuesday, Jan. 8, 16884. About Noon our Consort being 
astern, Tacked, and we then ‘lacked, and stood after him, 
hoping to wether Sylly and its Rocks. Just before night we 
were in much fear by reason of many Rocks, some even with 
and some just above the water under our Lee, very near us, 
but by the Grace of God we wethered them. In the next place 
we were interrogated by the Bishop and his Clarks, as the Sea- 
men said, being a Rock high above the water, and three spired 
Rocks by the side of him, lower and much lesser, which we saw, 
besides multitudes at a remoter distance. ‘The breach of the 
Sea upon which made a white cloud. So I suppose the former 
Rocks near the Land of Sylly not the Bishop. Sailed Souwest, 
and §.W. by S. At night our Consort put out a Light, and 
about 8 o’clock began to hall away South-East. We imagined 
we saw some Glares of the Light of Sylly, but could not cer- 
tainly say. 

Wednesday, Jan. 9* As soon as ’twas light the word was 
they saw of Man of War, which put us into as great a conster- 
nation almost as our yesterday’s Danger. Puts out his Ancient 
[ensign]; coming nearer speaks with us: is a Londoner from 
the Canaries, who by dark wether for several days had not 
made the Land, and lost his Consort last night. We told him 
we came from Sylly last night. He told us that five weeks 
agoe a Ship told them the Prince of Aurange was Landed in 
England before they came from Portland. ‘This was at 
Canaries. Said also, the King not dead. Suppose ourselves 
abrest with the Lizard. Our Guner said he saw it. Sail along 
3 of us pleasantly, Laus Deo. 

In the night the Londoner carries two Lights, one in ’s poop, 
the other in ’s round Top. 


SEWALL’S DIARY 73 


Thorsday, Jan. 10, 16884. Very fast wind, sail along with 
four or five more ships. About Ten o’clock saw the Isle of 
Wight plain, which is the first Land next to Sylly that I have 
seen. Next to that saw high white Cliffs: but then Clouds and 
Fogg took away our Sunshine and Prospect. ‘The Isle of 
Wight makes a long space of Land, Hills and Valleys. 

Friday, Jan. 11. A prety while before day, a vehement 
North wind comes up, so that fain to ly by, and great con- 
fusion by reason that the 6 or 7 Ships were so near together 
that ready to fall fowl one of another. In the morn see that 
we are over against Beachy [Head]. In a while Tack about 
to try to gain the Wight, but cannot. A little before night 
tack again; Seven Cliffs. Make thus cold wether. 

Jan. 12. Meet with a Pink 14 days from Liverpool: tells 
us Prince of Aurange landed about the 29° Nov. [really on 
the 5th] in Torbay, with 50 Thousand Men, Six hundred 
Ships: Sea-Commanders all yielded to him: no bloud shed: 
King and Prince of Wales gone to France somwhat privatly. 
Bought three Cheeses of him. He sent us some Bottles of very 
good Beer, and we him one of my Bottles of Brandy. About 
12 o’clock the wind springs up fair, and about 6 in the even 
we take our leave of Beachey. Saith the occasion of Prince’s 
coming in, that apprehends King James has no Legitimate Son, 
that that of Pr. Wales is a Cheat. Told us there were Eng- 
lishmen found dead, drowned, tied back to back: so put us in 
great fear, because he intimated as if French Men of War 
were cruising with English Commissions. Sabbath, Jan. 13. 
Goe ashoar at Dover, with Newgate, Tuttle and Sister. Hear 
2 Sermons from Isaiah, 66. 9.—Shall I bring to the birth? 
Monday morn, Jan. 14%, view the fort at the west end of the 
‘Town and the Castle: went into the Kings Lodgings. 

A small River runs that helps to clear the Dock of Shingle: 
the Peers also defending. Houses of Brick covered with Tile 
generally: Some very good Buildings. A handsome Court- 


74, SEWALL’S DIARY 


House and Market-place, near which the Antwerp Tavern, 
where we drunk coming out of ‘Town. 

Got this night to Canterbury time enough to view the Ca- 
thedral, and Kentish Husbandry as went along. 

Jan. 15. To Chatham and Rochester, which make a Long 
Street of Good Houses. A fair Assize-House now building, 
just over against which we lodged at a Coffee House: no room 
in the Inn. Dined at Sittingburne. 

Wednesday, Jan. 16%. To Dartford, where had a good 
Goose to Dinner. ”*Tis a considerable place. A river runs into 
the Thames under a Stone Bridge of four Arches. “To South- 
wark, where we drink and reckon with the Coachman. Hire 
another Coach for 184 to Cousin Hull’s. Thorsday, Jan. 17%, 
went to the Exchange. Jan. 30', went to the Temple and to 
White-hall. Saw Westminster Abbey: Henry 7S Chapel. 
Heard Dr. Sharp preach before the Commons, from Psa. 51.— 
Deliver me from Blood guiltinesse, &c Saw St. James’s Park. 

Feb. 7. A Minister who lives at Abbington earnestly in- 
vites me to his House with Mr. Mather, and he will goe and 
shew us Oxford. Mr. Brattle shewed me Gresham Colledge, 
by Mr. Dubois his kindness and Cost. Afterward went to 
Smithfield, and the Cloisters of the Blew Coat Boys [at 
Christ’s Hospital]. Gresham-Colledge Library is about one 
Hundred and fifty foot long, and Eighteen foot wide. 

Feb. 9, 16884. Guild-Hall I find to be Fifty yards long, of 
which the Hustings take up near seven yards, Measuring by 
the same yard-jointed Rule, Mr. Brattle and I find the breadth 
to be Sixteen Yards. 

Feb. 11%. Mr. Brattle and I went to Covent-Garden and 
heard a Consort of Musick. Dined to-day with Madam Lloyd 
and Usher. 

Feb. 12. Saw three Waggons full of Calves goe by to- 
gether. At the Star on the Bridge, Mr. Ruck’s, saw the Prin- 
cess pass in her Barge, Ancients and Streamers of Ships flying, 
Bells Ringing, Guns roaring. Supped at Mr. Marshal’s, 


SEWALL’S, DIAR‘’ Vf 


March 19. Saw Paul’s, which is a great and excellent piece 
of work for the Arches and Pillars and Porches. The Stairs 
are five foot 1% long and four Inches deep, winding about a 
great hollow Pillar of about six foot Diameter. March 20. 
Went and saw Weavers Hall and Goldsmiths Hall. Went 
into Guild-Hall and saw the manner of chusing the Mayor. 
About 16 were put up, though I think but four were intended. 
Pilkington and Stamp had by much the most Hands, yet those 
for fatal Moor and Rayment would have a Pole, which the 
Court of Aldermen in their Scarlet Gowns ordered to be at 
four o'clock. They sat at the Hustings. Sheriffs in their Gold 
Chains managed the Election. 

April 20. Went on foot to Hackney through Brick-Lane, 
about 1% a mile long, and dined with Mr. Tho. Glover his 
Son, Read, Thompson, their wives, Mr. French, and several 
Grandchildren. Eat part of two Lobsters that cost 3.94 apiece, 
7®:6% both. 

April 23. With Mr. Mather waited on the Lord Whar- 
ton, and Sir Edward Harly. 


Lonpon, April 26, 1689. 


Honourep Sir, Hat in Hand, &c, Necessity puts men upon hard 
Shifts to find out some pretence or other for making their addresses 
to those from whom they may expect relief. There was Capt. John 
Hull, of Boston in N. E., with whom in his life-time you had some 
Correspondence by way of Merchandize. He died in Sept. 1683, 
leaving a Widow and a Daughter, who is my wife; by whom I had 
an Estate that might afford a competent Subsistence according to 
our manner of living in N. E. But since the vacating of the Char- 
ter, and erecting a Government by Commission, the Title we have to 
our Lands has been greatly defamed and undervalued: which has 
been greatly prejudicial to the Inhabitants, because their Lands, which 
were formerly the best part of their Estate, became of very little 
value, and consequently the Owners of very little Credit. Sir, I am 
glad that you are returned again to England, to your Country, Pos- 
sessions, and dear Relations, and to a Seat in Parliament. I hope 
your former Distresses will help you to sympathise with others in the 
like condition. I, and several besides me, are here far removed from 
our Wives and Children, and have little heart to goe home before 
some comfortable settlement obtained, whereby we might be secured 
in the Possession of our Religion, Liberty and Property. I am in- 


76 SEWALL’S DIARY 


formed some favorable Votes have been passed in the House of Com- 
mons, wherein N. E. was mentioned. I entreat your forwarding of 
such Votes as you have Opportunity, in doing which you will be a 
Partner with God, Who is wont to be concerned in relieving the 
Oppressed. I shall not take up more of your time from your mo- 
mentous Employments. My hearty Service presented to you, I take 
leave, who am, Sir, your humble Servant, Cr Sarkar 


April 29. went to Greenwich with Mr. Mather, Whiting, 
Brattle, Namesake: Supped at the Bear. Went through the 
Park to Mr. John Flamsted’s, who shewed us his Instruments 
for Observation, and Observed before us, and let us look and 
view the Stars through his Glasses. 

April 30. Come to Deptford, where breakfast with Cheese- 
cakes: from thence to Redriff upon the River’s Bank, where 
Dr. Avery’s Cousin had us to a Gentleman who showed us 
many Rarities, as to Coins, Medals, Natural and artificial 
things: from thence by water to ‘Tower-Stairs, about 10 
o'clock. 

April 29. In the morn saw the Westminster Scholars; 3 
of them made Orations in Hebrew, Greek, Latin, before the 
Dean and Delegates. Cambridge Delegates sat now on the 
right hand, for they take turns. Sub-Dean also had an 
Epistle; as did the Dean and Delegates. The grave Dr. Busby 
sat by. 

Tuesday, May 7 went to Windsor, 8 Eaton, Hampton 
Court, and so home. 

Thursday, May 9, went to H. Court, to wait on the King 
and Council. Mr. Mather not there: said he was feverish, yet 
I perceive was at Change. Sir Robt Sawyer spake of the Quo 
Warranto in Charles the First’s time, and supposed we had no 
Charter: asked if any had seen it. I said I had seen a Dupli- 
cate. Dr. Cox craved Day; so are to appear agen next Thors- 
day, and just as we were going out, by Sawyer’s means were 
called back, and then he spake of the Quo-Warranto for Mis- 
demeanors, and we are ordered to attend the Attorney Gen- 
eral with our Charter. As we came home were entertained 


SEWALL’S DIARY 77 


by Mr. Stephen Mason with Cider, Ale, Oysters and a Neat’s 
Tongue, being ten of us, or 11. “This house is at Clapham, 
wherein Col. Bathe did dwell. 

Tuesday, May 14, Mr. Richard Wharton dyes about 10 
post merid. He rid to Town the Wednesday before in order 
to goe to Hampton-Court last Thorsday. Monday, May 6, 
was at Westminster pleading against Mr. Blathwayt, in behalf 
of N. E. Mr. Brattle and I came down by water with him. 
Wednesday, May 15, went and dined with Fish at Capt. 
Kelly’s upon Mr. Partrige’s Invitation. Capt. Hutchinson, 
Clark, Appleton, Brattle, Hull, in company. Went to a Gar- 
den at Mile End and drunk Currant and Rasberry Wine, then 
to the Dog and Partrige’s, and plaid Nine Pins. At the house 
a Souldier was shot by his drunken companion the night before. 

May 18, goe to Hampton Court in company of Capt. Hut- 
chinson and Jo. Appleton; Mr. Mather, Sir Sam. Tomson, 
Mr. Whiting, and Mr. Joseph Tomson ridd in another Coach. 
Cost 218 apiece, besides money to the Drivers. Were dismissed 
sine Die. Mr. Ward and Hook our Council. Entertain Mr. 
Humphrys too. Just now about a virulent Libel comes out 
against N. E., the day Mr. Wharton was buried. 

Monday, May 20. Meet to answer the Print, and in the 
evening another accosts us, called an abstract of our repugnant 
Laws, full of Untruths almost as the former. ‘To comfort me 
when got home, met with a Letter from my dear Brother, by 
the way of Bilbao, dated the 12 March; all friends and my 
wife and Children well, but New England bleeding. 

May 31. Went to Mr. Papillon to speak to him in behalf 
of N. E., who entertains me candidly, and promises to pro- 
mote our Interest, and would have me take off [dissuade] 
those who may think contrarily. May 31. Is a Fast kept at 
Dr. Annesly’s: they began with singing and sang 4 or 5 times. 
After all, had a Contribution. When came home, found a 
Letter from Cousin Quinsey, giving an account of the Health 


of my Wife, Children and friends, on the 26 March. 


78 SEWALL’ S'\ DIARY 


June 3, 1689. Capt. Hutchinson, Mr. Brattle and I went 
to Newington to visit Mr. Saltonstall, at his son-in-law Hor- 
sey’s. I gave him two of Mr. Cotton Mather’s Sermons. As 
came home saw one Elisabeth Nash, born at Enfield, about 25 
Years old, just about Three foot high, not the breadth of my 
little finger under or over. Her Hands show Age more than 
anything else. Has no Brests. By reason of her thickness 
and weight can goe but very sorrily. Can speak and sing but 
not very conveniently, because her Tongue is bigger than can 
be well stowed in her Mouth. Blessed be God for my Stature, 
unto which neither I, nor my Dear Mother, my Nurse, could 
add one Cubit. 

June 4. Green Hastings, i.e. Pease, are cry’d at 64 a Peck, 
in little carts. Cous. Hull, Mrs. Perry and Bedford come 
from Portsmouth. I meet them at the Cross Keys in Gracious 
Street. 

June 15. Being at Mrs. Calvin’s alone in a Chamber, while 
they were getting ready dinner, I, as I walked about, began to 
crave a Blessing, and when went about it remembered my 
Cloaths I had bought just before, and then it came into my 
mind that it was most material to ask a blessing on my Person: 
so I mentally pray’d God to bless my Flesh, Bones, Blood and 
Spirits, Meat, Drink and Aparrel. And at Dinner, paring the 
Crust of my Bread, I cut my Thumb, and spilt some of my 
Blood, which word I very unusually, or never before, have 
used in prayer to my present remembrance. 

June 16. Last night I dreamed of my Wife, and of Father 
Hull, that he had buried somebody, and was presently intend- 
ing to goe to Salem. 

June 20% Writ to Cousin Stoeke, answering his of the 10% 
inst. Last Sabbath day night dreamed of the death of my 
dear Wife, which made me very heavy. 

Wednesday, June 26. Mr. Mather, his Son, Cousin Hull 
and self, set out for Cambridge, 45 miles: got thither by 7 


SE WALL Si Dil ARY 79 


o’clock, with one set 4 Horses. Lay at the Red Lion in Petit 
Curie. 

Thorsday, June 27, Mr. Littel, Fellow of Emanuel Col- 
ledge, shows us the Gardens, Walks, New Chapel, Gallery, 
Library of the Colledge, in it a Bible MS. of Wickliffe’s 
Translation. Mr. John Cotton and Hooker had been Fellows, 
as appeared by ables hanging up. Dr. Preston, Head of it. 
The Street where it stands is called Preacher’s Street, from 
Black Friars formerly resident there. Note. Said Fellow had 
in ’s Chamber, Sir Roger Le Strange, Jesus Salvator and K. 
Charles, 2°, hanging up together. Saw St. John’s Colledg, 
which stands by the River. Hath a good Library and many 
Rarities, among which was a petrified Cheese, being about half 
a Cheese. Trinity Colledge is very large, and the new Case 
for the Library very magnificent, paved with marble check- 
ered black and white; under, stately walk on brave stone; the 
Square very large, and in midst of it a Fountain. In the Hall 
many Sparrows inhabit, which is not known of any Hall be- 
side. At meal-Times they feed of Crums, and will approach 
very near Men. King’s Colledge Chapel is very stately. Went 
on the top of the inward Stone Roof, and on the top of the 
outward Lead-Roof, and saw the Town, and Ely about 10 
miles off. Below, on the side, under little Arches, is the 
Library. Mr. Littel dined with us at our Inn: had a Legg 
Mutton boiled and Colly-Flowers, Carrets, Rosted Fowls, and 
a dish of Pease. Three Musicians came in, two Harps and a 
Violin, and gave us Musick. View the Publick Library, which 
is in form of an L, one part not fil’d with books, some vacant — 
shelves to bespeak Benefactors. Saw the Divinity School over 
which the Regent House is. The School fair and large. Pub- 
lic Acts are kept in St. Marie’s Church, over against which the 
Schools are. Just before night our Landladie’s Son had us 
along Bridge-Street, and shewed us Sidney-Colledg as I take - 
it, and be sure Magdalen Colledg on the other side of the 
River, on which side there is none but that. Went to the 


80 SEWALL’S DIARY 


Castle-Hill, where is a very pleasant Prospect, the Prison and 
Sessions House just by, which is very ordinary, like a Cow- 
House. Cattell having free egrees and regress there. Gallows 
just by it in a Dale, convenient for Spectators to stand all 
round on the rising Ground. In sum Cambridge is better than 
it shows for at first; the meanness of the “Townbuildings, and 
most of the Colledges being Brick. 

June 28. Mr. Harwood and I step’d out and saw Queen’s 
Colledge, which is a very good one, in the Garden a Dial on 
the Ground, Hours cut in Box. ‘The River has there also a 
quicker Stream, being a little below the Mill: have several 
Bridges to go over to their Groves. Over against it stands 
Katherine Hall, the New Buildings of which are some of the 
goodliest in Cambridge. By it, the Printing Room, which is 
about 60 foot long and 20 foot broad. Six Presses. Had my 
Cousin Hull and my name printed there. Paper windows, 
and a pleasant Garden along one side between Katherine Hall 
and that. Had there a Print of the Combinations. As came 
Homewards, saw Audley Inn, or End. I can’t tell which is 
the right name. °*Tis a stately Palace. Din’d at Safron-Wal- 
den: went out and saw the Safron Roots, which are Ten Shil- 
lings a Bushel, about an Acre might yield an hundred pounds 
and more. Were just dugg up to be planted at Abington, a 
little place not far off. Have a fair Church. I writt out the 
Lord Audley’s Epitaph. Went into the Vault and saw the 
Earl of Suffolk’s Coffin, who died January last: stands on 
Tressels, and may see it in the outside at the Grate. Outside 
is black Velvet, and a small plate of Coper, telling time of ’s 
Death: rest is garnished. Lodg’d at Hockerred, pertaining to 
Bishop-Stafford. In the even, Mr. Sam. Mather and I viewed 
Trisday’s Well and Castle Hill. Set out on Satterday, about 
4 mane, breakfasted at Eping. Got to Mr. Croper’s about 
Eleven aclock. He keeps a Coffee House. While Mr. Mather 
read the Votes I took Thorsdays Letter and read the News of 
Boston, and then gave it Mr. Mather to read. We were sur- 


SEWALL’ S DIARY Sr 


pris'd with joy. At Change Capt. Hutchinson shew’d me 
Capt. Byfield’s Letter, which comes by Toogood. ‘They had 
the News on Change that day we went to Cambridge. 

June 7. Goe and hear Mr. Stretton, and sit down with him 
at the Lord’s Super. He invites me to diner. ‘Text, Hosea, 
2. 14. Before Sermon read the 32 Psalm, the 50 of Jeremiah, 
the 12'* of Matthew. Had one plate of bread, about 5 Bottles 
of Wine, and two Silver Cups. At night about 10 aclock, a 
great fire breaks forth in Mincing Lane. I was hardly asleep 
between 10 and 11, before there was a sad Alarm and Noys 
of Carrs to carry away Goods. A Woman lately brought to 
Bed was fain to be remov’d to another House. I went and sat 
a little while with Mr. Mather in Fan [Fen] Church Street. 

July 8. Went with Mr. Brattle and swam in the ‘Thames, 
went off from the Temple Stairs, and had a Wherry to wait 
on us: I went in in my Drawers. I think it hath been health- 
full and refreshing to me. 

July 9. Cousin Brattle, his wife and Daughter, Mrs. Shink- 
field, Mr. Crossman, were invited to Diner by Cous. Hull. 
Afterward, He and I went to Stepney, saw Thomas Saffin’s 
‘Tomb, one end of ’t joins to the wall. 508 was given for the 
Ground. Tis a very large burying-place. Were to be ten 
buried this night: we saw several Graves open and the Bones 
thick on the Top. Saw a Bowling Green where is 3 or 4 Sets 
ef Bowls. The Lord help me aright to improve my Flesh, 
Bones and Spirits, which are so soon to become useless, and it 
may be expos’d in one part or other of God’s Creation. 

Monday, July 15%. I rid to Tyburn, and saw Eighteen 
Persons, 16 Men and 2 Women, fall. They were unruly in 
the Prison, which hasten’d the Execution. Din’d in Great 
Russell Street, view’d the House and Walks of Lord Mon- 
tague: then ridd to Hemsted. Montague House makes a 
goodly Shew that way. Hempsted is a most sweet and pleasant 
place for Air and shady Groves. Bought the Gazett there. 
From thence ridd to Highgate, which is about a Mile. 


82 SEWALL’S DIARY 


July 17. Mr. Mather, on Change, toid Capt. Hutchinson 
and Sam. Apleton that he had put in their Names as Wit- 
nesses to Sir Edmund’s [Andros] raising Money without an 
Assembly. Ask’d where was Capt. Hutchinson. I shewed 
and went with him to him, and Mr. Mather ask’d him to be 
at Westminster at such a time, but said not a word tome. Af- 
terwards I went home, and then went to Mr. Whiting’s and 
told him that I could testify, and Mr. Walker that collected 
the Money was in Town. He seem’d little to heed it, and said 
I might be there: he knew not that I could testify: but he 
seems plainly to be offended, and for my part I can’t tell for 
what. A Moneth or two agoe Mr. Mather spake something 
about it, and I said I could not tell whether ’twere so con- 
venient then, because we hop’d every day for the Parliament 
Act to come forth, and thought Sir Edmund might have 
friends there, and such a thing as this might make them more 
desperately eger to hinder the Bill. But now the Bill is even 
despair’d of, and our friends in N. E. are in for Cakes and 
Ale, and we must doe all we may and swim or sink with them. 

Monday, July 29, Standing in the Shop about 7. mane, Mr. 
John Usher comes to the door, which surpriseth me. Foy is at 
Pezans. Mr. Usher came to town Satterday night. Sir Wil- 
liam [Phips] and Lawson arriv’d; all friends well. He knew 
not of his coming away till a day or two before. Is very con- 
fident, and hopes to be going home in seven weeks, or to be at 
home in little more than that time. I go and acquaint Mr. 
Mather, who had heard nothing of it. He hastens to tother 
end of the town. The Lord save N. E. I spoke to Mr. Usher 
not to do harm, as knowing the great King we must finally 
apear before: because he spake of going to the King. King is 
proclaim’d at Boston. Mr. Cook had like to have been kill’d 
with a fall from his horse. This 29*® July the Jews have great 
joy by reason of a Priest come to Town in the Harwich Coach, 
they having not had one a long time. Mr. Ekins his Wife 
and Daughter here. 


SEWALL’S DIARY 83 


July 31. N. E. Convention printed here, 500 Copies. Vis- 
ited Mr. James, but found him not at home: Sat a little while 
with ’s Daughter, but he came not in. Left Him N. E. Revo- 
lution and Convention. 

Aug. 11. Sung, or rather wept and chatter’d, the 142 
Psalm, in course. Mrs. Perry ill, kept her Bed yesterday. 

Tuesday, Aug. 13. Came with Capt. Hutchinson, Mr. 
Brattle, Partridge, Apleton from Salutation at Billingsgate to 
Woolige, where din’d with Mr. Sam. Allen; saw the King’s 
Ropeyard and the Canon in the Waren. Ropeyard nine score 
paces long. From thence to Graves-End in the even. Went 
on board the America about 10 aclock, hurting my shin against 
the end of a Chest going into the Cabbin, from which I supose 
in the night issued a pretty deal of Blood, and stain’d my Shirt, 
which startled me when rose in the morning at Graves-End, 
where I lodg’d with Mr. Brattle. 

Aug. 14. Mr. Mather comes down, and chides us severely 
that none staid for Him, and seeing the Ship not gone, goes to 
London again. I gave him my Letter by Cous. Hull, which 
had writt to inform him, not knowing of ’s coming, and beg’d 
his pardon, thinking I might be more servicable here and at 
Deal, than at London. 

Aug. 15. Write to Cous. Quinsey by Bant, with Invoice 
and Bill of Lading, Mr. Vaughan’s Cheese, his and Bro. Se- 
wall’s Anotations: Wife’s Stockings. Mr. Brattle and I ride 
to Chatham, dine at the Crown, see the Dock and 33 Spiners 
of Rope-yarn, goe on board the Britania, so to Sittingburn, 
lodge at the George: rains hard in the night. In the morn 
a good Ring of 6 Bells entertains us: no whether for the 
Ringers to work. 

Aug. 16. From Sittingburn to Canterbury in the Rain, 
dine at the Crown: Mr. Powell: send for Cou. Fissenden, his 
Sister dead since my being there, and my Landlady at the red 
Lion dead. Bought each of us a pair of Gloves of Mr. 
Chiever. From Canterbury to Sandwich with the Post. Sand- 


84. SEWALL’S DIARY 


wich a large place and wall’d about, 10 miles from Canter- 
bury, in a very flat, level country; Crek comes up to it. From 
thence to Deal 5 miles, built on the Beach. Land we ride 
over is call’d the Downs, and the Castle, Sand-Down Castle. 
Lodge at the 3 Kings. Mrs, Mary Watts, a widow, our Land- 
lady. 

Satterday, Aug. 17. Goe to the new Meeting house that 
is building for Mr. Larner in the 34 and lower street of Deal, 
towards the north end, which is, within the Walls, 34 wide 
and 41 foot long: 2 Galleries, one at each end, of 4 Seats apiece. 
Roof is double with a Gutter in the middle: built with Brick 
covered with Tile. Went to see Sand-Down Castle: but a 
Coach was there to bring out a Corps. The little Sand-Cliffs 
and iner Sand Hills, something like Plum [land little hills, 
give name no Question to that part of the Sea now call’d the 
Downs. Deal is built between the 2 forlands, about 5 mile 
from the North-forland, 3 parallel Streets, the upermost built 
on the very Beach, daring the Sea. 

Aug. 27. Tuesday. Exceter sumons all aboard about 4 p. m. 
Came to us in the Ship-Arbour, Mr. Lamin. Got aboard be- 
tween 6 and 7. ‘The shifting the wind was unexpected. No 
publick Prayer in the even. Very sore night for Thunder and 
Lightning. Were about to sail at midnight and the wind 
chopt about, and blew so hard that were glad to drop another 
Anchor again. » 

Aug. 22—26. Enclos’d in Cou. Hull’s to me. Mr. Mather, 
Sam, Mr. Brattle and I came aboard first in a boat: gave 3°: 
Others came aboard in the night. 

Satterday, Sept. 14%. Went on Board when the Ship under 
sail, but wind veer’d against us, so came again to Deal. 

Sept. 15. Sabbath-Day. Went aboard: the Fleet sail’d, 
Wind N. West, veer’d fairer and fairer: in the Night was 
much Lightening and loud Thunder. Exceter convoy. Sail 
by Dover, Folkston, Rumney. 

Monday, Sept. 16. is rainy, so can’t well see the Land. 


SEWALL’S DIARY 8s 


Tuesd. Sept. 17. Come up with Portland, wind at north, 
or thereabouts, and very strong. We are almost the farthest 
of all from the Shoar, and had lost the Exceter in the night: 
find her in the morning. Am ready to wish myself with Mr. 
Mather and my Namesake, recovering of the Small Pocks at 
Deal. After, sail with the Barclay-Castle, and on Wednesday 
morning, betwen 8 and 9. fair wether. Came to an Anchor 
in Plimouth Sound, the Tide being made strongest against us, 
and the wind but bare. 

Wednes. Sept. 18. About 6. p. m. the Ship being got up 
higher, we went ashoar. Mr. Brattle and I lodg’d together 
at the house of one Mr. John Jenings near the Key. Note. 
In coming up a Privateer fell foul of us, took off our Ancient- 
Staff, much discompos’d our wooden Guns, put Will’s 
[ Merry’s] Thumb out of joint, and some other damage. 

Sept. 24. Mr. Brattle, Dr. Edwards and I walk to Stone- 
house, 114 Mile from Plimouth, a Causey thither. Visit Capt. 
Hutchinson and Mr. Partridge, who lodge there in a very 
mean Chamber. 

Sept. 25. Went with Mr. Bedford, who shewed us the 
Cittadel, and Sir Nicholas Staning, the Lieut. Governour, who 
gave order that he should have us into his house, and then 
came in himself, and drank to us in a Glass of Ale, that being 
the drink I chose and Mr. Brattle. ‘IT'wo Men were laid 
Neck and heels. In the afternoon went aboard and fetch’d 
ashoar my Trunk: Landlady’s Brother and Daughter went 
with us. 

Sept. 26. Went with Capt. Hutchinson, Brattle and Par- 
tridge to Milbrook in Cornwall, and there din’d well for 64 
apiece. Went by the Beach and came home the uper Way by 
Maker Church, which is a large fair one upon the Hill, and 
so a very good Mark for Seamen. Go over Crimble Passage 
to Mount Edgcomb. Milbrook is part in Devonshire and part 
in Cornwall. Dr. Edwards came after us, and overtook us 
coming home. Milbrook People goe to Maker Church. 


86 SEWALL’S DIARY 


Sept. 28. Mr. Brattle and I walk out and see the Course 
of the Water brought by Sir Francis Drake, Ano, 1591, as 
apears by an Inscription. We are told it is brought so wind- 
ing about, that notwithstanding the Hilliness of the Country, 
no Troughs are used to carry it over Valleys. Many very 
good Overshut Mills driven by it. Upon another Conduit 
is engraven, Redigit desertum in Stagnum, 1593. It’s brought 
9 or 10 miles, from Ruper Down, deriv’d from a River as one 
goes to Tavistock, comonly call’d ‘Testick. 

Oct. 5. The Ships inward bound sail for London. Dr. 
Edwards in Weare. Went to Grimble [Cremil] Passage. 
Spake to Mr. Jacobs when came home. Saw an Ensign 
buried. ‘The Company was drawn up in one Rank, Pikes, next 
the House of Mourning. When ready to goe, rank’d six, 
came to funeral Posture: Colours cover’d with Mourning 
went after Pikes, then Captain, then Parson and Corps. Posted 
the Pikes ex adverso, mutually, when Service saying. Gave 3 
Volleys, but saw not the Colours open all the while. ‘The 
‘Tattoo with which the Watch is set goes thus:— 


Dirrera dim 
Dirrera dim 
Dirrera dim 
Dirrera dim 
Diim dim Dim dim Dirrera dim 
Dim dim Dim dim Dirrera dim 
Dirrera dim 


About three Sets of Drums take it one after another. 

Thorsday, Oct. 10. Set Sail out of Plimouth Sound with a 
fair wind, East, N.E. Capt Allen having left the Ship I was 
about to leave it too, but he returning I returned. 

Oct. 11. Pleasant wether. Two Rogues to windward of 
us, which the Man of War keeps off but can’t come up with 
them: in the night a meer Calm. 

Sabbath, Oct. 13. The Convoys leave us when scarce 40 
Leagues from Silly. Night very tempestuous. 


SHOWA: oS! DLA RLY 87 


Oct. 14. Make a shift to sail West, and West and by 
South. A Scattering day. I broke my white Plate. 

Tuesd. Oct. 15. Is a strong West wind, or West by South. 
Saw a Rainbow or two this day. Sail to the Northwest. 

Oct. 16. The wind is just in our Teeth. Last night pres- 
ently after going to bed, turn’d out in some Consternation be- 
cause of a Squawl, and danger of runing on 2 or 3 Ships. 
Many Porposes, or Hering Hogs seen this day. 

Nov. 13. Are in 43. Latitude. Sound, but find no bot- 
tom; so supose we are Southward of the Bank, 4 p. m. Birds 
and coldness of the Water are indications that we are near it. 

Noy. 14. Fair Wind and Wether. Sound, but find no 
bottom. Wether so mild that eat at the Table on the Deck, 
4 or 5 times together. 

Friday, Nov. 15. 9 Mane. Sound, and find ground in 45 
or 50 fathoms. Bring the Ship to and put out fishing Lines. 
Mr. Fanevill only catches a good Cod, which had several small 
Fish in him, supose to be Anchoves, however, very much re- 
semble that Fish. Very foggy wether. Judge are on the 
Southermost point of the Bank. And now we have tasted 
afresh of American Fare. Lord, give me to taste more of 
thyself everywhere, always adequately good. Nov. 16. 
N.W.NN.W. Nov. 17. North Wind. Calm. 

Wednesday, Nov. 20. East Wind. Sail 6 and 7 Knotts. 
Note. Last night about 2 aclock, Mr. Partridge came into 
Cabin and told us the Ships were come up with us, which 
made several suspect them to be Rogues, and put us in fear 
lest they should be Enemies. ‘The small Arms are charg’d. 
But in the morning, by putting out our Ancients, find them to 
be Jersey-Men, our Friends. ‘The best Sailer spake with us: 
he shortens sail for his partner, who sails heavy and hath 
sprung a Leak. Thinks we are the hindermost of all the Fleet. 
So, by the good Hand of God, that which cause of Fear and 
thoughtfulness to us, is turned into matter of Pleasure and 


88 SEWALL?S DARI 


Comfort. Blessed be his Name. Yesterday Observed: found 
the Latitude 41 and 25 Minutes. 

Nov. 20, 1689. If it should Please God, who is Righteous 
in all his Ways, and Holy in all his Works, to put an End to 
my Life before I come to Boston, my Desire is that the Rev. 
Mr. John Hale, of Beverly, have given him the Sett of Pool’s 
Synopsis which I bought of Mrs. Mills, quarto 5 Volumes: 
And that Mr. Charles, the Son of the Reverend Mr. Israel 
Chauncy, of Stratford, have given him another Sett of Mr. 
Pool’s Synopsis Criticorum, in five Books: And that the 
Money laid out with the Winthrops, on account of the Land 
the South Meeting House stands on, be given the persons con- 
cerned, that so I [who?] have done them no good, may doe 
them no hurt. Provided no damage hapen by a Bond I have 
given the Winthrops, or one of their Husbands, a Copy of, 
which is in my Papers. And that my dear Brother, Mr. Ste- 
phen Sewall, have given him my new Cloath-colour’d suit 
with the Chamlet Cloak. And if I have not done it already 
in my Will, left at Boston, I desire that my Namesakes, Sam. 
Toppan and Sam. Sewall of Newbury, have Five pounds apiec 
given them by my dear Mother and Wife, unto whom my 
other Friends are equally known as to my Self. I desire my 
dear Wife to accept of my Watch as a Token of my Love. 
And as to the things mentioned on this and the other side of 
this Leaf, I leave them to the Discretion and good liking of my 
dear Mother and Wife, to doe them or leave them undone, 
because the Estate is theirs. As witness my Hand. 

SAM SEWALL. 

Nov. 24. Supose are now in the Latitude of Cape Cod, or 
near it: Sound, but find no bottom: Wind at West, but by 
night veers to the Southward, so as to ly West Norwest. Very 
pleasant wether, but no Observation. 

Nov. 28. Stand to the Norward, N.W. and N.W. and by 
Nor. E. Have a good Observation: are in the Latitude of 42 
and 50, which, it seems, is the Latitude of Cape Anne. Hoist 


SEWALL’S DIARY 89 


up the Top Sails, to see if can make the Northern Land. See 
a small Boat gone adrift. About 3 p. m. Samay goes up the 
Shrouds and on the Top Sail Yard spies Land, and takes the 
Purse. The Mate Wallis and Guner say ’tis Pigeon-Hill on 
Cape Anne. Guner, who is a Coaster, saith also that he sees 
Newbury Old Town Hill, and Rowly Hill. All see it plain 
on the Deck before Sunset. Pleasant wether, clear skie, smooth 
sea. Sail N.W. Blessed be God who has again brought me 
to a sight of New-England. 

Noy. 29. Most pleasant day. Find the Land we saw yes- 
terday to be Agamenticus Hills. Canot wether Cape Anne, 
so goe into Piscataqua River: land at the Great Island: from 
thence to the Bank in the night. Capt. Hutchinson and I lodge 
at Mr. Crafford’s. Send Madam Vaughan her Cheese. 

Satterday, Nov. ult. Ride to Newbury. Friends there ex- 
ceeding glad to see me, being surpris'd at my coming that 
Way. 

Dec. 2. Came to Boston: Staid so long at the Ferry that 
it was between 9. and 10. before I got into my own House. 
Mr. Cook only came with me from Gov". Bradstreets. 

Thorsday, Dec. 5. Capt. Hutchinson and I took our Oaths; 
Gov". Bradstreet there: Deputies treated us at Wing’s after 
Lecture, as Major and Capt. Apleton, Mr. Eps and others 
had done at Ipswich as came along. 

Friday, January 3. I treated the Magistrates at James 
Meers; viz: Dept. Governour, Mr. Winthrop, Richards, Rus- 
sel, Johnson, Apleton, Hutchinson, Cook, Hawthorn, Smith, 
Philips, Shrimpton, Addington, Swain, with Mr. Willard, 
Belcher Bromfield; I think all these there. 

Jan. 9°. Tho. Hawkins, Pirat. was Tried and found guilty. 

Jan. 10%. It falls to my Daughter Elisabeth’s Share to read 
the 24. of Isaiah, which she doth with many Tears not being 
very well, and the Contents of the Chapter, and Sympathy 
with her draw Tears from me also. Mr. Dudley went home 


go SEWALL’S DIARY 


yesterday, or the night before; but it seems refuseth to pay the 
Guards except the Council will order the Sum. 

Sabbath, Jan. 12. Richard Dumer, a flourishing youth of 
9 years old, dies of the Small Pocks. I tell Sam. of it and 
what need he had to prepare for Death, and therefore to en- 
deavour really to pray when he said over the Lord’s Prayer: 
He seem’d not much to mind, eating an Aple; but when he 
came to say, Our father, he burst out into a bitter Cry, and 
when I askt what was the matter and he could speak, he burst 
out into a bitter Cry and said he was afraid he should die. I 
pray’d with him, and read Scriptures comforting against death, 
as, O death where is thy sting, &c. All things yours. Life 
and Immortality brought to light by Christ, &c. ~Iwas at 
noon. 

Friday, 17. Return homeward. Call and see Mr. Torrey 
and his wife; Cous. Hunt and her Sons Jn°® and Daniel. Lodge 
at Unkle Quinsey’s, coming in the night from Weymouth for 
fear of Snow. Got home between 11. and 12. Went after 
diner to the Town-House, to Mr. Addington, from thence to 
Mr. Browning’s, from thence with Mr. Cotton Mather to the 
Prisoners who were condemned on Friday. Spoke to, and 
pray d with Pounds and others; then with Coward, Johnson 
and others. Gave him [Mr. Mather] two Duzen Books 
bound, viz. Right thoughts. &c. Sermons to his Father Philips, 
and on the Ark. 

Monday, Jan. 27. Five were order’d to be executed, but, 
chiefly through Mr. Winthrop’s earnestness in Reprieving, 
only Tho. Johnson dies. Had join’d in reprieving Pounds and 
Buck at the Governour’s, and then got away; but Mr. Win- 
throp, Addington, Shrimpton followed me to my house with 
another Writing for Hawkins, which Winthrop and Shrimp- 
ton had signed, and got me to sign: He was ready to be turn’d 
off before it took effect, which gave great disgust to the People: 
I fear it was ill done. Governour, Winthrop, Shrimpton, Ad- 
dington, Phillips, repriev’d Coward, and most seem’d to desire 


SEWALL’S DIARY QI 


that he and his 3 companions might be spar’d. Some in the 
Council thought Hawkins, because he got out of the Com- 
bination before Pease was kill’d, might live as well as Coward; 
so I rashly sign’d, hoping so great an inconvenience would not 
have followed. Let not God impute Sin. 

Feb. 8. and 9 Schenectady, a village 20 miles above Albany, 
destroy’d by the French. 60 Men, Women and Children mur- 
der’'d. Women with Child ripp’d up, Children had their 
brains dash’d out. Were surpris’d about 11. or 12 aclock Sat- 
terday night, being divided, and secure. 

In the Storm of Snow that then fell Skipar Dotey, his Son 
Jn°, and Elkana Watson, were cast away on Ba[rn]stable 
Bar. Bodies not found, and ’tis fear’d they are murder’d by a 
free Negro and Indians. 

Feb. 24. Monday, Gov". Bradstreet and Lady, Mr. 
Stoughton, Major Hutchinson and wife, Mr. Willard, Mr. 
Moodey and wife, Mrs. Mather, Maria, Mr. Allen and wife, 
Cous. Dumer and wife, Cous. Quinsey and wife, Mr. Cotton 
Mather, Mr. Tho. Brattle, who with Mother, wife and Self. 
made T'wenty, Marshal Green waited: Sat all well at the 
Table. Mr. Cotton Mather returned Thanks in an excellent 
maner: Sung part of the Six and fiftieth Psalm, in Mr. Miles 
Smith’s version, Thou knowst how long I have from home— 
to the End. Mr. Mather was minded to have that Transla- 
tion: I set it to Windsor Tune. N.B. The bitterness in our 
Cups, was that, the Massacre at Schenectady by the French; 
the amazing news on’t was by Post brought to Town this day. 
Gov". Bradstreet brought the Papers and read them before and 
after diner. At last, Mr. Danforth, Major Richards, Major 
General Winthrop, Col. Shrimpton, Mr. Addington came in, 
and dispatcht Orders to the Majors to stand upon their Guard, 
To Capt. Price, Sen’. Capt. in Salem Regiment. 

Just about diner time Mr. Nelson comes in and gets me 
to subscribe 100. to the Proposals against the French. I 
thought ’twas time to doe something, now were thus destroy’d 


92 SEWALL’S DIARY 


by Land too. Mr. Danforth looks very sorrowfully. Mr. 
Stoughton thinks best to prosecute vigorously the business 
against the Eastern French. 


To THE CoNSTABLES OF BosTon, 
AND EVERY OF THEM. 


You are required in their Majesties Names to Walk through the 
several parts of the Town this day, and take effectual care to suppress 
and dissipate all unlawful Assemblies, or tumultuous gathering to- 
gether of people for the Shailing or throwing at Cocks, and such like 
Disorders, tending to the disturbance of their Majesties Liege People, 
and breach of the Peace, contrary to the wholsom Laws on that be- 
half made and provided, particularly, those entituled Cruelty, and Pre- 
scriptions. Hereof you may not fail. Dated in Boston the fourth 


day of March 163. Annoque Reg. and Regine Willielms and 
Mariz — Secundo. 
S1MoN BRADSTREET Govt. 
Wait WINTHROP 
ExtisHa HuTCHINSON ona 
SAM SEWALL 
Isaac ADDINGTON J] 

I gave the preceding Warrant to Thomas Banister, Con- 
stable, who said he would take effectual Care about it. Another 
was given to Capt. Prout, to be deliver’d to a Constable at the 
North end of the Town, only it was given on Monday night 
at James Meer’s and so the Governour had not sign’d it. 


March 4, 1655. Sam. Haugh, 14 years old last February, 
chuses me for his Guardian. Solomon Raynsford introducing 
of him with a pretty handsome Speech for my acceptance. 
Dept. Governour was by and told him he must now hearken 
to me and take me for his Father. George Monk brought in 
a Dish of Fritters, but Major Hutchinson, Mr. Addington 
and my self eat none of them, only Major Richards (of the 


Court) did eat. 
March 18, 1655. I gave New-Roxbury the name of Wood- 


stock because of it’s nearness to Oxford, for the sake of Queen 
Elizabeth, and the notable Meetings that have been held at the 


SEWALL’S DIARY 93 


place bearing that Name in England, some of which Dr. Gil- 
bert inform’d me of when in England. It stands on a Hill, I 
saw it as went to Coventry, but left it on the Left hand. Some 
told Capt. Ruggles that I gave the name, and put words in 
his Mouth to desire of me a Bell for the Town. 


Friday, March 21, 1638. Madam Bradstreet, Mrs. Moodey, 
Mrs. Mather and my wife ride in the hackney Coach to Dor- 
chester, dine with Mr. Stoughton. It should have been on 
Wednesday, when the news came indistinctly in the afternoon 
of the Surprisal of Salmon Falls. This Friday morn before 
they went to Mr. Stoughton’s, the dolefull news came that 
between 80. and 100. persons were kill’d and carried away, 
were taken by surprise about break of day: no Watch kept: 
are about half French, half Indians. Hopewood Capt. of the 
Indians, Artel [Francois Hertel] of the French. Hampshire 
General got 100. Men and came up with the Enemy about 
Sun-set and fought them till night took away the sight of them. 
One Frenchman taken making up his pack who gives an 
account as above. 

This day Capt. Townsend is appointed Comander in Chief. 

Satterday, March 22. Sir William Phips offers himself to 
go in person; the Governour sends for me, and tells me of it, 
I tell the Court; they send for Sir William who accepts to goe, 
and is appointed to Comand the Forces; Major ‘Townsend re- 
linquishes with Thanks. Sir William had been sent to at first; 
but some feared he would not goe; others thought his Lady 
could not consent. Court makes Sir William free, and Swear 
him Major Generall, and several others. Adjourn to Boston, 
Wednesday 14 night one aclock. 

March 24, 163. Eight Companies and Troops Train. I goe 
into the field, pray with the South Company, Exercise them 
in a few Distances, Facings, Doublings; before which Thanked 
them for their Respect in mentioning me when in England, 
warning the Company in my Name; and told them the place 


94 SEWALL’S DIARY 


I was in required more Time and Strength than I had, so took 
leave of them. 

March 25. Drums are beat through the Town for Volun- 
teers. 

April 4, 1690. Major Richards, Hutchinson, Col. Shrimp- 
ton, Mr. Addington and my self went to the Castle to view 
what Capt. Fayerwether had done, and what was proper for 
him further to doe in making Batteries, and putting the place 
into yet a more defensible posture. Went to Dear-Island, and 
saw how the sea wash’d it away. “Then went to Apple-Island, 
to the Castle again, and there din’d; suffer’d no Guns to be 
fired; but the Captain caus’d the Flagg to be hoisted all the 
while we were there, in token of Respect. Cost us 5° 84 apiec. 

April 24. Set sail, leaving our Horses and taking our 
Bridles and Saddles in the Sloop. 

Satterday, April 26. got into Oyster Bay [L. I.], the wind 
being Contrary, and there anchored. 

April 27. Went ashore, rid to Hempsted through Jerico, 
to hear Mr. Hubbard, but he was at York: Staid at Mr. Jack- 
sons, read Chapters, and Mr. Stoughton prayed excellently. 

April 28. Rid to Jamaica, there din’d with Mr. Prudden, 
Pastor of the Church there. From thence to Brookland 
[Brooklyn], where Mr. Edsal met us with a File or two of 
Troopers, got to the Ferry about 12. aclock. Went over and 
din’d with the Governour. Lodg’d at Mr. Mariot’s; but were 
so disturb’d that were overcome by the Governour’s impor- 
tunity and lodg’d at his House. Major Gold and Mr. Pitkin 
met us there for Conecticut. 

May 5. Got on board our Sloop, leaving Capt. Du Pey- 
ster’s Diner. Wind sprung up fair, got well throw Hell- 
Gate, went ashore at Dr. Taylor’s near the White Stone, 
wooded and watered: Sailed again with a fair wind. 

On Wednesday Morn, May 7* there was a Fogg, which 
put us to our shifts, not knowing which way to sail; but it 


SEWALL’S DIARY 95 


pleased God to clear the Air, so as we saw our Course, Block- 
Island, Point-Judith, and got in about noon, being their Elec- 
tion day. Gov". Bull furnish’d us with Beds for the voyage; 
Din’d at Mr. Hedge’s. Henry Bull chosen Governour, Major 
Green of Warwick, Dept. Governour. Rid to Bristow, lodg’d 
at Capt. Byfield’s. 

May 8. Rid to Billinges, where Mr. Lee met us in his way 
homeward, gave an account of the wellfare of my family, hav- 
ing din’d with my Mother and wife at Cous. Dummer’s. 
Pray’d with us. 

May 9. Friday, Rid to Dedham and there refresh’d, so home 
by 12. or thereabouts; visited Mr. Eliot and Mr. Walters by 
the way. Mr. Stoughton and I waited on the Governour and 
I on the Council with Gov’. Leisler’s Letter. 

Found my Family all well, save Sam’s sore in his neck, and 
Hanah droops as though would have the Small Pocks. Note. 
I have had great heaviness on my Spirit before, and in this 
journey; and I resolved that if it pleas’d God to bring me to 
my family again, I would endeavour to serve Him better in 
Self-denial, Fruitfullness, Not pleasing Men, open Conversa- 
tion, not being solicitous to seem in some indifferent things 
what I was not, or at least to conceal what I was; Endeavour- 
ing to goe and come at God’s call and not otherwise; Labour- 
ing more constantly and throwly to Examin my self before 
sitting down to the Lord’s Table. Now the good Lord God 
of his infinite Grace help me to perform my Vows, and give 
me a filial Fear of Himself, and save me from the fear of Man 
that brings a Snare. 

May 10. Hanah takes a Vomit, her Grandmother earn- 
estly desiring it. Has the Small Pocks very favourably, keeps 
her Bed but three or four days; about 50 or 60 in her face; 
pretty many on her Wrists. 

May 19 Begins to keep below with her Brother, and Sister 
Betty. 


96 SEWALL’S DIARY 


May 26. Mr. Cotton Mather prays with Eliakim. 

May 28. Small Pocks apear. 

Sabbath, June 1. Betty and Joseph are taken. Betty very 
delirious. 

Monday, June 9 Joseph hath a very bad night, as also the 
night before. 

June 10%. He grows better and the Small Pocks doe apar- 
ently dye away in his face. 

Wednesday, June 11. We put Sam. to Bed, having the 
Small Pocks come out upon him, as the Physician and we 
judge. Betty is so well as to Goe into Mother Hull’s Cham- 
ber, and keep Jane Company, between 9 and 10. mane. 

June 17 Tuesday. Sam. rises and sits up a good while very 
hearty and strong. Blessed be God. This day one of my 
Shirts goes to lay out a Man dead at Nurse Hurds of this dis- 
temper, being a Stranger. 

Sabbath, Augt. 10 Went to see Cous. Quinsey; read the 
102, Psal. and begin 103. pray’d, and so went home. Put up 
a Bill at his request. Just after Contribution in the After- 
noon, was call’d out, Cousin being very bad, so far as I could 
perceive. He desired me to pray, which I did: Afterward 
sent for Mr. Willard, and He pray’d, then Cousin pull’d his 
hand out of the Bed, and gave it to Mr. Willard. Seem’d to 
pray himself; but I could hear little except Jesus Christ; 
breath’d quick and hard, till at last abated and He quietly ex- 
pired about Seven aclock. Mother Hull and I being there. I 
have parted with a cordial fast Friend, such an one as I shall 
hardly find. The Lord fit me for my Change and help me to 
wait till it come. Cousin was concern’d what he should doe 
for Patience, but God graciously furnish’d him, and has now 
translated Him to that State and place wherein He has no 
occasion for any. 

Tuesday, Augt. 12. About 7. P.M. we lay the Body of 
Cous. Daniel Quinsey in my Father’s Tomb. Mr. Serjeant, 
Dumer, H. Usher, Davis, Williams, Coney, Bearers. I led the 


SEWALL’S DIARY 97 


Widow, then the Children, next, Mr. T. Brattle, Mrs. Shep- 
ard, H. Newman, Mistress Margaret, Mr. Willard, Mother 
Hull, Mr. Parson, my wife and so on. Note. My wife was so 
ill could hardly get home, taking some harm in going in Pat- 
tens, or some wrench, so had a great flux of Blood, which 
amaz’d us both, at last my wife bad me call Mrs. Ellis, then 
Mother Hull, then the Midwife, and throw the Goodness of 
God was brought to Bed of a Daughter between 3. and four 
aclock, Aug. 13° 1690. mane. Mrs. Elisabeth Weeden, Mid- 
wife. Had not Women nor other preparations as usually, 
being wholly surpris’d, my wife expecting to have gone a 
Moneth longer. 

Augt. 17. Mr. Willard keeps his Sabbath at Roxbury, and 
so the Baptism of my little Daughter is deferred to the next 
Lord’s Day. 

Sabbath-day, August the four and twentieth, 1690. I pub- 
lish my little Daughter’s name to be Judith, held her up for 
Mr. Willard to baptize her. She cried not at all, though a 
pretty deal of water was poured on her by Mr. Willard when 
He baptized her: Six others were baptized at the same time; 
Capt. Davis’s Son James, and a grown person, Margaret Clif- 
ford, two of them. I named my Daughter Judith for the sake 
of her Grandmother and great Grandmother, who both wore 
that Name, and the Signification of it very good: The Lord 
grant that we may have great cause to praise Him on her ac- 
count and help her to speak the Jews Language and to forget 
that of Ashdod. Nehem. 13. 24. And that she may follow 
her Grandmother Hull, as she follows Christ, being not sloth- 
full in Business, fervent in Spirit, serving the Lord. Her 
Prayers and Painstaking for all my Children are incessant, vol- 
untary, with condescension to the meanest Services night and 
day: that I judg’d I could in justice doe no less than endeavour 
her remembrance by putting her Name on one of her Grand- 
Daughters. I have now had my health and oportunity to offer 
up Nine Children to God in Baptisme. Mr. Tho. Thacher 


98 SEWALL’S DIARY 


baptized the two eldest; John and Samuel; Mr. Samuel 
Willard baptized the Seven younger. Lord grant that I who 
have thus solemnly and frequently named the name of the 
Lord Jesus, may depart from Iniquity; and that mine may be 
more His than Mine, or their own. 

Augt. 29, 1690. I watch at night with about 30. men. 
Word was Skenectady. Nathan Clarke of Newbury buried 
this week, died Augt. 25. 

Sept. 1, 1690. Eight Companies Train. Governour dines 
at Mr. Pain’s with the South Company. Capt. Frary exer- 
cises the Company. Joseph is carried into the Comon to take 
the air and see the men. 

Thorsday Sept. 11 Being crowded in the Pue, by reason 
Mr. Hutchinson and Sergeant constantly sit there and claim 
Propriety, so Mr. Usher is forced to take my place; having 
also found that sitting so near the out-side of the House 
causeth me in Winter-time to take cold in my head, I removed 
into Gallery, and sat with Dept. Governour, Mr. Russel, Ma- 
jor Hutchinson, where had very convenient sitting. 

Sept. 14% I Watch, Word was Salmon-Falls, had a very 
comfortable night; only between 3. and 4. were disquieted by 
Guns fired at Charlestown, and Drum beat: But I did not ob- 
serve a continual Beat of the Drum, so caus’d not an Alarm; 
and about day a Messenger was sent over who told us the 
occasion was some Indians seen in their back fields. Run-away 
Servants they apear to be; by which means the Town was 
generally rais’d: But throw God’s goodness Trouble at Bos- 
ton prevented. 

Sept. 17. Fast at Mr. Mathers. 

Sept. 18. Mr. Willard’s Edward dies of a Convulsion Fit. 

Sept. 20. Is buried at Roxbury in Mr. Eliot’s Tomb, I was 
at the Funeral. Rain and Thunder this day after a great deal 
of dry wether which made it extream dusty. Mr. Walter 
went to Prayer: Mrs. Willard sick, and not at the Grave. My 
little Judith languishes and moans, ready to die. 


SEWAL DU: GuDTAR Y 99 


Sabbath, Sept. 21. About 2 mane, I rise, read some Psalms 
and pray with my dear Daughter. Between 7. and 8. (Mr. 
Moodey preaches in the Forenoon,) I call Mr. Willard, and 
he prays. Told Mr. Walter of her condition at the funeral, 
desiring him to give her a lift towards heaven. Mr. Baily sat 
with me in the Afternoon. I acquainted Him. Between 7. 
and 8. in the evening the child died, and I hope sleeps in Jesus. 

Sept. 22. In the even, Mr. Moodey, Allen, Mather come 
from Mrs. Clark’s Funeral to see us. Mr. Moodey and I 
went before the other came, to neighbor Hord, who lay dying; 
where also Mr. Allen came in. Nurse Hord told her Husband 
who was there, and what he had to say; whether he desir’d 
them to pray with him: He said with some earnestness, Hold 
your tongue, which was repeated three times to his wive’s re- 
peated intreaties; once he said, Let me alone, or, be quiet, 
(whether that made a fourth or was one of the three do not 
remember) and, My Spirits are gon. At last Mr. Moodey 
took him up pretty roundly and told him he might with the 
same labour have given a pertinent answer. When were ready 
to come away Mr. Moodey bid him put forth a little Breath 
to ask prayer, and said twas the last time had to speak to him; 
At last ask’d him, doe you desire prayer, shall I pray with you, 
He answer’d, Ay for the Lord’s sake, and thank’d Mr. 
Moodey when had done. His former carriage was very star- 
tling and amazing to us. About One at night he died. About 
11. aclock I supposed to hear neighbour Mason at prayer with 
him, just as I and my wife were going to bed. Mr. Allen 
prayed with us when came from said Hord’s. 

Sept. 23. “Tuesday, between 5. and 6. Sir Moodey carries 
the Body of my dear Judith to the Tomb, Solomon Rainsford 
receives it on the Stairs and sets it in. On the Coffin is the 
year 1690. made with little nails. Gov’. Bradstreet and Lady, 
Mrs. Moodey, Mather, the Mother, Mr. Winthrop, Richards 
here, with many others; Ministers, Willard, Moodey, Mather. 

As we were going, one [blank] of Watertown came up with 


I0O CROW AUS a Ds LaaRey 


the Bearer, and talk’d to him on horseback, Mr. Moodey bid 
him he gon about his business; at that he was in a rage and 
threaten’d to strike him, and said he was a pittyfull Dogg and 
we were all pittyfull Doggs. I thought of David and Shimei 
and said nothing to him. The Lord prepare me to undergo 
evil Report, and to be vilified by men; but not for evil-doing. 
I led my wife, Sam. his Grandmother, Hanah Betty, Jane 
Toppan managed Joseph. Before we went, Children read the 
18. 19. and 20 Chapters of John, being in course for family 
reading. 

Wednesday, Nov. 26%. Mr. Willard and I rid to Dorches- 
ter, from thence with Mr. Stoughton and Danforth, the Min- 
ister, to Braintrey, where met Mr. Torrey. I sign’d a Lease 
to Nehem. Hayden; Mr. Stoughton, Unkle Quinsey and his 
Son Witnesses. Mr. Torrey is for a Fast, or at least a Fast 
first. Mr. Willard for a Thanksgiving first. Mr. Torrey 
fears lest a Thanksgiving should tend to harden people in their 
carnal confidence. Cousin Gookin grows worse of her brest 
rather than better. Were wet coming home; met Mr. Caleb 
Moodey and N. Godoing on Crane’s plain, riding to meet the 
Son of said Moodey, who came home in Jarvis and landed at 
Cape-Cod Harbour. When came home went to Capt. Hill’s 
to the Meeting. I read the 11 Sermon of Mr. Flavell to the 
end of the 34 Excellency; 6 first Lines I composed with my 
own hand in London concerning God’s being the Centre and 
Rest of the Soul. No body ask’d for the Meeting, so I invited 
them to our house. 

Nov. 27. As 2% Bell is begun to be rung for Lecture, the 
Cleper falls out, the staple that held it being broken. At night 
Goodm. Williams rings the South-Bell for 9 aclock, at which 
many people started, fearing there had been fire. No ringing 
at the Old Meting-House on the Sabbath, Nov. 30, nor 9 
aclock Bell since Thorsday, that I have heard. 

Noy. 29. Menval had a hearing before the Council as to 
Money of his in Sir William’s hand: very fierie words between 


SHWALULOS DIARY IOI 


Sir William and Mr. Nelson. When Sir William went out 
semed to say would never come there more, had been so abus’d 
by said Nelson, and if Council would not right him, he would 
right himself. 

Dec. 29, 1690. Mr. Addington and I goe to Sir William 
Phips’s, where Mr. Moodey and Mr. Mather in his Border: 
had very sharp discourse; Mr. Mather very angrily said that 
they who did such things as suffering Sir William to be arrested 
by Meneval, were Frenchmen, or the people would say they 
were, &c. 

Dec. 30. Council orders the Writt against Sir William to 
be null. 

Jan. 7%, Mr. Addington and I went to Mr. Cotton Ma- 
ther, and expostulated with him about the discourse at Sir 
William’s, and the Remonstrance brought to the Council by 
Capt. Greenough and Mr. Coleman the Tuesday following: 
and hope ’twill tend to promote Charity and Peace. 

Satterray, Jan. 10, 169%. Betty with her Sister and others 
were riding in a sled, and the Indian who drove it struck 
Betty with his Goad on the side of the head so as to make it 
bleed pretty much and swell, but thanks be to God, no danger 
now the fright is over, and heals. 

Sabbath, Jan. 11. At night the House of Joshua Gar- 
dener, at Muddy-River, is burnt, and two of his Children; the 
Lord help us to repent that we do not likewise perish. “Iwas 
my turn to Watch. [I sent Eliakim; the north watch saw the 
light of the fire. 

-Jan. 21, 169%. Meeting at Mr. Woodmancies in Major 
Wallies house. A cry of fire was made which much disturb’d 
us in the middle of Sermon; it prov’d to be Mr. Pole’s Chim- 
ney, which made a great light. Snow on the houses which pre- 
vented danger. Sermon, Brother Emons read, was about Hun- 
gring and Thirsting after Righteousness. Mr. Burroughs on 
the Beatitudes. Sung 2? part 45. Psal. Mr. Burroughs 
referring to the time of the new Jerusalem. Very Cold. 


102 SE WALL SuiDA ARTY. 


March 19, 169%. Mr. C. Mather preaches the Lecture 
from Mat. 24., and appoint his portion with the Hypocrites: 
In his proem said, Totus mundus agit histrionem. Said one 
sign of a hypocrit was for a man to strain at a Gnat and swal- 
low a Camel. Sign in’s Throat discovered him; To be zealous 
against an inocent fashion, taken up and used by the best of 
men; and yet make no Conscience of being guilty of great Im- 
moralities. ‘Tis supposed means wearing of Perriwigs: said 
would deny themselves in any thing but parting with an opor- 
tunity to do God service; that so might not offend good Chris- 
tians. Meaning, I suppose, was fain to wear a Perriwig for 
his health. I expected not to hear a vindication of Perriwigs 
in Boston Pulpit by Mr. Mather; however, not from that 
Text. ‘The Lord give me a good Heart and help to know, and 
not only to know but also to doe his Will; that my Heart and 
Head may be his. 

Apr. 20% 1691. Being pressed with the sense of my doing 
much harm and little good, and breach of Vows at my return 
from New York, this time twelvemonth, that is, not heedfully 
regarding to go at God’s Call, I kept a Fast to pray that God 
would not take away but uphold me by his free Spirit. When 
I came to look, I found it to be the very day of the week and 
year as much as could be that I set out for New York, which 
made me hope that twas a token for good that God would 
pardon that Sin and Sins since committed. Pray’d for Sister 
Dorothy, my family, New England, that God would fit me 
for his good pleasure in doing and suffering. ‘Treaty with 
Indians to be the 18* May, &c. 

May 4. Eight Companies Train; I went not into field; in 
the evening Major and Captains came hether to desire me not 
to lay down my place, Mr. Cotton Mather being here, set in 
with them. Mr. Mather staid and went to prayer with us, 
and had the very expressions us’d by the Dept. Governour 
when He deliver’d me my Comission; viz: Let us serve our 


SEWALL’S DIARY 103 


Generation according to the Will of God, and afterwards fall 
asleep. 

May 20%. Election-day, very fair and comfortable wether. 
Led the South-Company into the Comon, there pray’d with 
them, so march’d with Capt. Hill to the Governour’s. Guard 
consisted of two Files on each Flank, &c.; had put four Drums, 
made extream bad Volleys at night. After being treated by 
the Governour, the 122. Psalm was sung, Mr. Allen got me 
to set the Tune, which was Windsor; it brought to mind the 
Psalm sung in that very Room in 1686, which Mr. Nowell 
read. Note. “Throw what heartlessness I scarce know, but 
I went not for Mr. Morton to bring him to the Meetinghouse, 
nor to fetch him from Mr. Eyre’s to diner, which now I look 
upon it, troubles me much. Mr. Hutchinson and Addington 
not sworn this day. 

Augt. 28. Friday. Fast at Charlestown, where ] am. After 
my coming home when ’tis almost dark, Jane Toppan comes 
in from Newbury and brings the very sorrowful News of the 
death of Cous. Sam. Toppan last Tuesday night about nine of 
the Clock; buried the Wednesday night following, because of 
the Heat. No Minister with him: Mr. Shove prayd not with 
him at all, went not to him till was just dying: suppose might 
be afraid of ’s school. Sam. bewail’d his not minding Spiritual 
things more, and that times were such as that things of that 
nature were scoff’d at. About Monday night last as Joseph 
was going into Cradle, He said, News from Heaven, the 
French were come, and mention’d Canada. No body has been 
tampering with him as I could learn. ‘The Lord help us to 
repent that we may not perish, as probably Eliakim and those 
with him have done; and now poor Cousin Sam. 

Oct. 16. Ordered the Clark to warn the Officers to meet 
me at Sergt. Bull’s. After the meeting at Mr. Willards went 
thether. Serj’. Bull, Rainsford, Odlin; Corp! Wheeler, 
Weare, Banister, Jn° and Isaac Marion there. I acquainted 


104. SEWALL’S DIARY 


them with my inability to serve longer as a Captain, and my 
desire the Company might be setled. 

Sabbath, Oct. 25. Capt. Frary’s voice failing him in his own 
Essay, by reason of his Palsie, he calls to me to set the Tune, 
which accordingly I doe;17, 18, 19, 20, verses 68'* Psalm, Wind- 
sor Tune; After the Lord’s Supper 6, 7, 8, 9, verses 16° Low- 
Dutch. P.M. 2% staves of 141. Ps. St. Davids, Jehova, I 
upon Thee call. After Evening Exercise, 24 part 84 Ps. 
Litchfield; I knew not that had the Tune till got to the 2? 
Line, being somewhat surprized, though design’d that ‘Tune. 
I would have assisted Capt. Frary but scarce knew what Tune 
he design’d; and the Tune I guess’d at, was in so high a Key 
that I could not reach it. 

Sabbath, Oct. 25, 1691. Boston, N. E. I pray’d this morn 
that God would give me a pardon of my Sins under the Broad 
Seal of Heaven; and through God’s goodness have receiv’d 
some Refreshment and Light; I hope I doe thirst after Christ; 
and sensible of my own folly and Loathsomness that I value 
Him no more, and am so backward to be married by Him. 

Wednesday, Oct. 28, 1691. My wife is brought to Bed of 
a Daughter about 8. in the morning; Elisabeth Weeden, Mid- 
wife. Rose about 4. m. 

Sabbath. Novemb? 1. A very pleasant day. Mr. Willard 
baptiseth my Daughter Mary, was enlarged in Prayer, none 
else baptised. Capt. Eliot not being abroad, I set the Tune 
again; Martyr’s, St. Davids, Oxford. 

Thorsday, Nov. 19% 1691. Sam. goes to Cambridge with 
Mr. Henry Newman, who is to carry him to morrow Nov. 20, 
to Mr. Neh. Hobart’s at New Cambridge. 

Nov. 18%. Last night the Governour was taken with the 
Stone, so the Council meet at his House; He was at the ‘Town- 
house yesterday but then the Wether hinder’d the Council’s 
meeting. 


Tuesday, Dec. 1, 1691. Brother W™ Moodey brings Sister 


SSEeW ALi leSt DITA Riv LOG 


Gerrish to see us; she is great with child, looks to ly in the lat- 
ter end of February, with her eighth. 

Dec. 2. Very stormy day of Snow and Rain; by the fire I 
speak earnestly to Sister to make sure of an Interest in Christ, 
being alone. 

Friday, Dec. 4. Brother Moodey and Sister Gerrish take 
their journey homeward, intend to call at Salem, notwith- 
standing the Small Pocks. 

Monday, Dec. 7. I ride to New-Cambridge to see Sam. 
He could hardly speak to me, his affections were so mov’d, 
having not seen me for above a fortnight; his Cough is still 
very bad, much increas’d by his going to Cambridge on foot in 
the night. Mr. Hobart not at home. Mr. Lawson was by 
accident there, and so had the benefit of his Company home. 
Got well home before 6. aclock, set out from home after 12. 
Staid there about 144 hour. Laus Deo. 

January, 2, 16914. Tim? Dwight dies about 10. mane. 

Boston in N. E. January 2, 16914. I had been at Mrs. Col- 
lucott’s, and coming home between 12. and 1. I call’d to see 
Tim? Dwight, and as I stept into the Room, saw him laid out 
under the sheet. 

Monday, Jan. 44 Went to the Funeral of Tim. Dwight. 
Cous. Dumer, Capt. Jn° Walley, Capt. Wing, Rowse, ‘Tho. 
Savage, Goldsmith, Robt Saunderson, Bearers. Mr. Joyliff 
and I went next the Relations; by the Dock-head Mr. Willard 
struck in: no Minister before; buried at the new burying place; 
something troublesom going, by reason of the great Snow fell 
yesterday. 38 years old. Lord grant that I may be ready, 
when the Cry shall be, Behold, the Bridegroom cometh. 

Tuesday, Jan. 12, 16914. Major Hutchinson and I visit 
Major Johnson, Mr. Hez. Usher and Sol. Phips in Company. 
He is very glad to see us. Call’d at Betty Gardener’s as came 
back. This week’s Rain and Sun have thaw’d the ways as if 
it were March. Major Johnson has kept house about 18 
weeks. ‘Takes his disease to be the burning Ague mentioned 


106 SE WALL’'S) DUARY 


in the Scripture. This night [blank] Hamlen, formerly Plats, 
before that, Crabtree, a middle-aged woman, through some dis- 
pleasure at her Son whom she beat, sat not down to Supper 
with her Husband and a Stranger at Table: when they had 
done, she took away, and in the Room where she set it, took 
a piece of grisly meat of a Shoulder of Mutton into her mouth 
which got into the top of the Larynx and stopt it fast, so she 
was presently choak’d. “Tho. Pemberton and others found it 
so when they opened her Throat. She gave a stamp with her 
foot and put her finger in her mouth: but Pemberton not at 
home, and di’d immediately. What need have all to Acknowl- 
edge God in whose Hand their breath is, &c. Sam. Worden, 
and another woman, die the same night, and widow Oliver de 
Sweet, the next day. 

Jan. 24 169134. Gov’ Bradstreet comes to Meeting this 
Afternoon, which as I remember has not done in January till 
now. 

Tuesday, Jan. 26, 16914. News comes to Town by Robin 
Orchard, of Dolberry’s being arrived at Cape Cod; Sir Wil- 
liam Phips made Governour of the Province of New England. 
Foy (in whom went Mr. Lee) taken into France; Quelch and 
Bant also. Six weeks passage from Plimouth. ‘This day, 
almost at the same Time, news was brought of an Attack made 
by the Indians on York. 

Jan. 25, 16934. I asked Mr. Willard at Mr. Eyre’s 
whether the Times would allow one to build an house; an- 
swer’d, I wonder you have contented your selvs so long without 
one; but I little thought what was acted that day at York. 
Got Mr. Eyre to come home with me about 8. at night to 
advise me. 

Satterday, Feb. 27. Between 4. and 5. mane, we are 
startled at the roaring of a Beast, which I conjectur’d to be an 
Ox broken loose from a Butcher, runing along the street, but 
proved to be our own Cow bitten by a dog, so that were forc’d 
to kill her; though calved but Jan. 4 and gives plenty of 


SEWALL’S DIARY 107 


Milk. Hapy are they, who have God for their Spring and 
Brest of Suplies. Exceeding high wind this day at North East. 

Sabbath, Feb. 28. Day is so Stormy that Governour went 
not to meeting. Madam Bradstreet not well. 

April 11t® 1692. Went to Salem, where, in the Meeting- 
house, the persons accused of Witchcraft were examined; was 
a very great Assembly; ’twas awfull to see how the afflicted 
persons were agitated. Mr. Noyes pray’d at the beginning, 
and Mr. Higginson concluded. 

May 14 1692. Sir William arrives in the Nonsuch Frigat: 
Candles are lighted before He gets into Townhouse. Eight 
Companies wait on Him to his house, and then on Mr, [In- 
crease] Mather to his. Made no volleys because ’twas Sat- 
terday night. 

Monday, May 16. Eight Companies and two from Charles- 
town guard Sir William and his Councillors to the Town- 
house, where the Comissions were read and Oaths taken. I 
waited on the Dept. Governour to Town, and then was met 
by Brother Short and Northend, who inform’d me of the dan- 
gerous illness of my father, so I went with them, and was not 
present at the Solemnity; found my father much better. At 
Ipswich, as we were going, saw a Rainbow just about Sunset, 
in Company of Brother Northend. 

July 20 1692. Fast at the house of Capt. Alden, upon his 
account. Mr. Willard pray’d. I read a Sermon out of Dr. 
Preston, 18t and 24 Uses of God’s Alsufficiency. Capt. Scottow 
pray’d, Mr. Allen came in and pray’d, Mr. Cotton Mather, 
then Capt. Hill. Sung the first part 103. Ps., concluded about 
5. aclock. Brave Shower of Rain while Capt. Scottow was 
praying, after much Drought. Cous. Daniel Gookin sups with 
us, and bespeaks my marrying of him to morrow. 

July 27, 1692. A plentifull Rain falls after great Drought. 

July 30, 1692. Mrs. Cary makes her escape out of Cam- 
bridge-Prison, who was Committed for Witchcraft. 

Thorsday, Augt. 4. At Salem, Mr. Waterhouse brings 


108 SEWALL’S DIARY 


the news of the desolation at Jamaica, June 7. 1700 persons 
kill’d, besides the Loss of Houses and Goods by the Earth- 
quake. 

Augt. 19 1692. This day George Burrough, John Wil- 
lard, Jn° Proctor, Martha Carrier and George Jacobs were ex- 
ecuted at Salem, a very great number of Spectators being pres- 
ent. Mr. Cotton Mather was there, Mr. Sims, Hale, Noyes, 
Chiever, &c. All of them said they were inocent, Carrier and 
all. Mr. Mather says they all died by a Righteous Sentence. 
Mr. Burrough by his Speech, Prayer, protestation of his Inno- 
cence, did much move unthinking persons, which occasions their 
speaking hardly concerning his being executed. 

Auegt. 25. Fast at the old [First] Church, respecting the 
Witchcraft, Drought, &c. 

Monday, Sept. 19, 1692. About noon, at Salem, Giles 
Corey was press’d to death for standing Mute; much pains was 
used with him two days, one after another, by the Court and 
Capt. Gardner of Nantucket who had been of his acquaintance: 
but all in vain. 

Sept. 20. Now I hear from Salem that about 18 years agoe, 
he was suspected to have stamped and press’d a man to death, 
but was cleared. “TWas not remembered till Ane Putnam 
was told of it by said Corey’s Spectre the Sabbath-day night 
before the Execution. 

Sept. 21. A petition is sent to Town in behalf of Dorcas 
Hoar, who now confesses: Accordingly an order is sent to the 
Sheriff to forbear her Execution, notwithstanding her being 
in the Warrant to die to morrow. ‘This is the first condemned 
person who has confess’d. 

Thorsday, Sept. 22, 1692. William Stoughton, Esqr., John 
Hathorne, Esqr.. Mr. Cotton Mather, and Capt. John Hig- 
ginson, with my Brother St., were at our house, speaking about 
publishing some Trials of the Witches. Mr. Stoughton went 
away and left us, it began to rain and was very dark, so that 
getting some way beyond the fortification, was fain to come 


SEWALL’S DIARY 109 


back again, and lodgd here in Capt. Henchman’s Room. Has 
been a plentiful Rain, blessed be God. Mr. Stoughton went 
away early in the morn so that I saw him not. Read the 1 Jn°® 
1. before went to bed. 

Satterday, Oct. 15* Went to Cambridge and visited Mr. 
Danforth, and discoursed with Him about the Witchcraft; 
thinks there canot be a procedure in the Court except there be 
some better consent of Ministers and People. Told me of the 
woman’s coming into his house last Sabbath-day sennight at 
Even. 

Friday, Oct. 21. Went to Salem and visited my sick 
Brother, who has had a Fever all this moneth; Is very desirous 
to live, and makes vows to serve God better, if his life be 
spared: was much affected at my coming in. 

Oct. 23. At night, Mr. Cook, Oakes and Wiswall arrive, 
got to their houses almost before any body knew it; have been 
8 week and 5 days from Plimouth. Went and saw my Land- 
lord and Landlady Jennings; their Son in Jamaica has a 
Plantation spoiled by a Mountain thrown upon it by the late 
Earthquake. 

Oct. 26, 1692. A Bill is sent in about calling a Fast, and 
Convocation of Ministers, that may be led in the right way as 
to the Witchcrafts. The season and maner of doing it, is 
such, that the Court of Oyer and Terminer count themselves 
thereby dismissed. 29 Nos. and 33 yeas to the Bill. Capt. 
Bradstreet and Lieut. ‘True, W™ Huchins and several other 
interested persons there, in the affirmative. 

Oct. 28° Lieut. Governour coming over the Causey is, by 
reason of the high Tide, so wet, that is fain to go to bed till 
sends for dry cloaths to Dorchester; In the Afternoon, as had 
done several times before, desired to have the advice of the 
Governour and Council as to the sitting of the Court of Oyer 
and Terminer next week; said should move it no more; great 
silence, as if should say do not go. 


IIO SEWALL’S DIARY 


Oct. 29. Mr. Russel asked whether the Court of Oyer and 
Terminer should sit, expressing some fear of Inconvenience by 
its fall. Governour said it must fall. Lieut. Governour not in 
Town today. Several persons drowned on Friday 28. Major 
General comes home Oct. 28. even, having been gon a Moneth. 
Deputies doe this day Treat the lately returned Agents Oct. 
28. 

Nov. 4, 1692. Law passes for Justices and Ministers Mar- 
rying persons. By order of the Comittee, I had drawn up a 
Bill for Justices and such others as the Assembly should ap- 
point to marry: but came new-drawn and thus alter’d from 
the Deputies. It seems they count the respect of it too much 
to be left any longer with the Magistrate. And Salaries are 
not spoken of; as if one sort of Men might live on the Aer. 
‘They are treated like a kind of useless, worthless folk. 

Nov. 6. Joseph threw a knop of Brass and hit his Sister 
Betty on the forhead so as to make it bleed and swell; upon 
which, and for his playing at Prayer-time, and eating when 
Return Thanks, I whipd him pretty smartly. When I first 
went in (call’d by his Grandmother) he sought to shadow and 
hide himself from me behind the head of the Cradle: which 
gave me the sorrowful remembrance of Adam’s carriage. 

Nov. 22, 1692. I prayd that God would pardon all my Sin- 
full Wanderings, and direct me for the future. That God 
would bless the Assembly in their debates, and that would 
chuse and assist our Judges, &c., and save New England as to 
Enemies and Witchcrafts, and vindicate the late Judges, con- 
sisting with his Justice and Holiness, &c., with Fasting. Cousin 
Anne Quinsy visited me in the Evening, and told me of her 
children’s wellfare. Now about, Mercy Short grows ill again, 
as formerly. 

Thorsday, Dec. 22, 1692. After Lecture, the Governour 
delivers Mr. Stoughton his Comission as Chief Justice of the 
Superiour Court, and to Major Richards, Winthrop, Sewall as 
Justices, and the Secretary gave each of us an Oath singly, 


SEWALL’S DIARY ye 


that would impartially administer Justice according to our best 
skill. I would have stayed till Mr. Danforth took his; but the 
Governour granted it not. 

Major General tells me, that last night about 7 aclock, he 
saw 5. or 7 Balls of Fire that mov’d and mingled each with 
other, so that he could not tell them; made a great Light, but 
streamed not. ‘Twas our privat Meeting; I saw nothing of it. 
Order comes out for a Fast. I carry one to Mr. Willard. 
Mrs. Willard talks to me very sharply about Capt. Alden’s 
not being at the Lord’s Supper last Sabbath-day. 

Sabbath, Jan. 22, 16924. A very extraordinary Storm by 
reason of the falling and driving of the Snow. Few Women 
could get to Meeting. Our two Maids and my self there. A 
child named Alexander was baptized in the Afternoon. Major 
General not abroad in the Afternoon. Gov". Bradstreet very 
sick. 

Jan. 27, 16924. Mr. Elisha Cook, Mr. Isaac Addington 
and I saw and heard Simon Bradstreet Esqr. sign, seal and 
publish a Codicil now anexed to his Will, written by said Ad- 
dington at said Bradstreets direction, and read to him several 
times. Signd and seald it sitting up in his Bed. After told 
us that if his Estate should exceed “Two hundred pounds more 
than was mentioned in the Will, would have his Executors 
distribute it according to the direction of his Overseers, and 
Wife, I think. Said, the reason why would sell the little farm, 
was because ’twas a ruinous thing, and yielded but 8£ per 
anum in Country-pay. Call’d for Ale and made us drink. 

Jan. 28. Went in with Mr. Cotton Mather to Mr. Brad- 
streets, and heard him pray. 

March 9, 16924. Joseph puts his Grandmother and Mother 
in great fear by swallowing a Bullet which for a while stuck 
in his Throat: He had quite got it down, before I knew what 
the matter was. “This day in the Afternoon One of Mr. Holy- 
oke’s I'wins falls into the Well and is drownd, no body but 
a Negro being at home; was a very lovely Boy of about 4 


112 SEWALL’S DIARY 


years old. Satterday, March 11, about Sunset He is buried. 
When I come home from the funeral, my wife shows me the 
Bullet Joseph swallowed, which he voided in the Orchard. 
The Lord help us to praise Him for his distinguishing Favour. 


Wednesday, March 22, 16924. Our kitchin chimney fell 
on fire about noon, and blaz’d out sorely at top, appeared to be 
very foul: the fire fell on the shingles so that they began to 
burn in several places, being very dry: but by the good Provi- | 
dence of God, no harm done. Mr. Fisk was with us, and we 
sat merrily to dinner on the Westfield Pork that was snatch’d 
from the fire on this Occasion. Mother was exceedingly 
frighted; and is ready to think we are called to remove. This 
very morning had as ’twere concluded not to build this Sum- 
mer; because my wife is loath to ly in at another place. What 
we shall now doe, I know not. Rid to Dorchester. 

Apr. 26, 1693. Wednesday. ‘The old Kitchen is pulled 
down. 

Satterday, Apr. 29. The little Hall is Removed, and joined 
to Matthias Smith’s house. 

Friday, May 5. Alexander Millar and Frank, Cous. Say- 
ages Negro, begin to digg the Cellar. Mrs. Goose is brought 
to bed of a daughter. 

Tuesday, May 16, 1693. The first stone is laid in the new 
building, being the great Stone that lay at Capt. Wyllys’s 
Corner, and is now our Corner-Stone next Father Walker’s. 

May 20. ‘The Corner stone next Fort-Hill is laid; The 
Corner next Wheeler’s Pond had the other half; being the 
white split Rock on the Comon. 

May 20. The Governour comes home from Sea. Major 
Converse went out after the Enemy with 200 and odd men, 
yesterday was senight; designed for “Tackonnick. 

Tuesday, May 23, 1693. The Corner Stone next Cotton- 
Hill is laid, which fell as it were cheerfully and willingly into 
his place; I gave the workmen a piece of Eight. 


SEWALL’S DIARY 113 


Satterday, May 27. ‘The foundation of the Cellar is 
finished, by stones gotten out of the Comon. 

Monday, June 12, 1693. I visit Capt. Alden and his wife, 
and tell them I was sorry for their Sorrow and Temptations 
by reason of his Imprisonment, and that was glad of his Res- 
tauration. 

Monday, June 26. The Brick-Work is begun; the South- 
end of the house being carried up several foot high. 

July 15, 1693. I went to Mr. Goose, and told him his wife 
could not conveniently sit any longer in my wives Pue, and 
therefore desired her to look out another place. 

Monday, Augt. 7. About 4. mane I go for the Midwife; 
About 4. P.M. My Wife is brought to Bed of a Daughter. 
Thanks be to God. This day Sarah Noyes a young woman of 
about 21 years dies. “Tis very cool and comfortable wether 
after about a weeks time of excessive Heat. Clouds gather 
thick, and a little Rain in the Evening. 

Wednesday, Augt. 9. There falls a plentifull Rain after a 
long distressing Drought. Laus Deo. 

Augt. 14. The plates and sumers of the lower Chamber 
Floor are laid. 

Satterday, Augt. 12. Capt. Eliot comes sick from Muddy- 
River. 

Wednesday, Augt. 16. Dyes about 2. at night. 

Augt. 17. Is buried. Major Hutchinson, Sewall, Joyliff, 
Walley, P. Allen, Bridgham, Bearers. Buried in the new bury- 
ing place. “Tis a sudden and very sore Blow to the South 
Church, a Loss hardly repaired. On the Sabbath, Mr. Wil- 
lard being in before me, I did not mind D. Eliot’s absence, 
and wondered I heard not his voice beginning the Ps., and 
Capt. Frary waited when I should begin it. We shall hardly 
get another such a sweet Singer as we have lost. He was 
one of the most Serviceable Men in Boston, condescending to 
his friends. One of the best and most respectfull Friends I 
had in the World. Lord awaken us. Scarce a Man was so 


114 SEWALL’S DIARY 


universally known as He. Dyed in the 61. year of ’s Age. Was 
one of the first that was born in Boston. 

Satterday, Sept. 9. I return from Point-Judith, having been 
gon from home ever since the 28. of August. At my return, 
find little Jane not well. 

Sept. 12. Call Mr. Willard to pray with little Jane. Went 
to Roxbury-Lecture, Mr. Hobart came home with me, who 
also pray’'d with Jane; both excellently. By Dr. Oakes advice, 
I give her a little Mana. Methinks she looks like Henry in 
his Sickness. “The good Lord prepare her and us for the issue, 
and help us to choose the things that please Him. Nurse Judd 
watches. 

Sept. 13, 1693. Between 12. and 1. at night following that 
day, Little Jane expires, much as Henry did, in neighbour 
Smith’s lap, Nurse Hill and I being by. 


Boston, NEw ENGLAND. 


*1. Joktn Sewall, the Son of Samuel and Hanah Sewall, was born 
Apr. 29 1677, died Sept. 11th 1678. 
2. Samuel Sewall, was born June 11t® 1678, 
3. Hannah Sewall, was born Feb. 34 1623. 
4, Elisabeth Sewall, was born Dec. 29t® 1681. 
*5. Hull Sewall, was born July 8» 1684. Died at Newbury, June 
18th 1686, is buried there. 
*6, Henry Sewall, was born Dec. 7th 1685. Died Dec. 224 1685. 
*7. Stephen Sewall, was born Jan 30t® 16864. Died July 26> 1687. 
8. Joseph Sewall, was born Aug 15th 1688 
*9, Judith Sewall, was born Aug. 13t2 1690, Died Sept. 21st 1690. 
10. Mary Sewall, was born Oct. 28th 1691. 
*11. Jane Sewall, was born Aug. 7*® 1693. Died Sept. 13t4 1693. 
All the above-named Eleven Children have been by their father, 
Samuel Sewall, (holding them in his arms,) Offered up to God in 
Baptisme, at the South-Meeting-House in Boston. The Rev4. Mr. 
Thomas Thacher baptised John and Samuel; and the Rev4. Mr. 
Samuel Willard baptised the other Nine, upon the Sabbath Day in 
the Solemn Assembly of God’s Saints. 
Sept. 15, 1693. The body of Jane Sewall was laid in the 
Tomb, between 4. and 5. P.M. John Willard carried the 
Corps. Lord teach me to profit. I led my wife; Cous. Dumer, 


Mother; Sam. his Sister; Jane, Elisabeth; 


SEWALL’S DIARY 11g 


Oct. 11t* Carried my daughter Hanah to Salem in Com- 
pany of Mr. Hathorne and Sam. Wakefield; got thether about 
8. at night. 

Oct. 12. Carried her to Rowley, W™ Longfellow rid 
before her; I staid Lecture at Ipswich, where unexpectedly 
heard Mr. Edward Tomson preach a very good Sermon from 
Felix’s procrastination. 

Oct. 13. Rid home, having much adoe to pacify my dear 
daughter, she weeping and pleading to go with me. 

Wednesday, Oct. 18. Jn° Barnard raises the Roof of the 
brick House, no hurt done, through God’s goodness. 

Tuesday, Nov. 21, 1693. Our House is covered and de- 
fended against the wether. 

Nov. 24. The first Snow falls. 

Friday, Jan. 5°. Being in the chamber of the new House 
next Tiler’s, I fell down, and razed off the skin of my right 
Legg upon the shin bone, putting my self to much pain; I was 
fain to fall across the Joysts, to prevent falling through, which 
I was in great danger of. 

Satterday, Jan. 13, 16934. The Floor of the lower Cham- 
ber towards the North-East, is laid; I drove a Nail. 

Monday, Jan. 15, and Jan. 16, the Floor of the Hall-Cham- 
ber is laid. ‘The Ice is clear gon out of the Docks as in March. 

Jan. 19, 16934. Kitchen floor is finished. “This day Mrs. 
Prout dies after sore conflicts of mind, not without suspicion 
of Witchcraft. 

Satterday, Jan. 27. The Hall Floor is finished. 

Jan. 30, 16934. The Kitchin Casements are Glazed and 
set up. 

April 2, 1694. Monday. Artillery Training; Bastian and 
I set seeds of White-Thorn at Saunder’s Pasture, north end. 
In the Afternoon, all the Town is filled with the discourse of 
Major Richard’s Death, which was very extraordinarily sud- 
dain; was abroad on the Sabbath, din’d very well on Monday, 
and after that falling into an angry passion with his Servant 


116 SE WALL’ 8 3DDARLY 


Richard Frame, presently after, fell probably into a Fit of 
Apoplexy, and died. On ‘Tuesday night was opened and no 
cause found of his death; noble Parts being fair and sound. 

Friday, April 6. Major Richards is buried in his ‘Tomb in 
the North Burying Place; Companyes in Arms attending the 
Funeral. Bearers, Stoughton Danforth; Russell, Brown; Se- 
wall, Addington; Major General and Mr. Foster led the 
Widow. Mr. Torrey was not there because “twas Friday. 
Coffin was covered with Cloth. In the Tomb were fain to 
nail a Board across the Coffins and then a board standing right 
up from that, bearing against the top of the Tomb, to prevent 
their floating up and down; sawing and fitting this board made 
some inconvenient ‘Tarriance. 

Oct. 20. This week the upper Floors are laid with boards 
that had only this Summer’s seasoning. 

Sabbath, Oct. 28, 1694. ‘There is a very High boisterous 
and cold Norwest Wind, my dear Mother Hull for fear the 
wind should bear her down, does not put on her Cloak: but 
wears two Scarvs and so catches cold; however, grows indis- 
pos’d so that canot eat nor sleep; kept from the Catechising 
and Lecture. I left word with Mr. Oliver that Mother de- 
sired his Brother to come and see her, which he did Nov. 1. 
and left directions. Mr. Moodey prays with her. 

Nov. 1, 1694. Capt. Dobbins refusing to give Bail, the 
Sheriff was taking him to Prison, and Sir William Phips res- 
cued him, and told the Sheriff He would send him, the Sheriff, 
to prison, if he touch’d him, which occasioned very warm dis- 
course between Him and the Lieut. Governour. 

Nov. 3, 1694. 1. past m. Mr. Willard prays and the Gov- 
ernour adjourns the General Court to the last Wednesday in 
February next, P.M. Several of the Council desired a dissolu- 
tion, lest some Emergency should require the Calling of an As- 
sembly, and this Adjournment bind our hands; but the Goy- 
ernour would not harken to it. Onset of the Enemy, Packets 
from England, were mention’d. Before the Adjournment, 


SEWALL’S DIARY 117 


Governour expostulated with the Speaker about copying out 
and dispersing a.Letter of Sir H. Ashurst’s; then said, ‘This 
Court is dissolv’d to such a time: being put in mind of his mis- 
take, said, I mean Adjourn’d. 

Wednesday, Nov. 7. First day of the Court’s meeting this 
week, Capt. Dobbins is call’d. He utterly refuseth to give 
Bail, confesseth himself to be in the Sheriff’s Custody. Between 
the Sheriff and Keeper is carried to Goal, which makes great 
Wrath. He pleaded Justification for it, produced two War- 
rants under the Governour’s Hand and Seal, and an Act of 
Parliament: Court adviseth. 

Sixth-day, Nov. 9, 1694. Lieut. Governour and Council 
dine at James Meers’s; The Treat was intended for the Gov- . 
ernour; but is so offended at Capt. Dobbins Imprisonment, 
that He comes not, nor Mr. Mather the Father, nor Son, nor 
Capt. Foster; so chair at the uper end of the Table stands 
empty. Note. Mr. Cotton Mather was sick of a grievous 
pain in his face, else He had been there, as He told me after- 
ward. 

Fifth-day, Nov. 15%. Is a Council at the Governour’s 
House about taking Mr. Jackson’s Affidavits; defer it till after 
Lecture that Capt. Byfield may have notice to be there. 

Mr. Walter preaches a very good Sermon from Ps. 73. 27. 
They that are far from Thee shall perish: shewd the misery 
of the unregenerat: the Hapiness of Believers, by reason of 
their manifold Nearness to God. Governour did not go to 
Lecture. After Lecture was much debate at the Townhouse, 
and at last Mr. Jackson’s Affidavits were all read over, and his 
Oath given him by the Lieut. Governour and Council. 

Seventh-day, Nov. 17 1694. Just about Sunset or a little 
after, the Governour goes from his House to the Salutation 
Stairs, and there goes on board his Yatcht; Lieut. Governour, 
many of the Council, Mr. Cotton Mather, Capts. of Frigatts, 
Justices and many other Gentlemen accompanying him. ’I'was 
six aclock by that time I got home, and I only staid to see them 


118 SRW AL Des (Diba 


come to sail. Guns at the Castle were fired about seven: Gov- 
ernour had his Flagg in main Top. Note. Twas of a seventh 
day in the even when the Governour came to Town, and so tis 
at his going off, both in darkness: and uncomfortable, because 
of the Sabbath. 

Nov. 21. My wife grew so ill that I got up between three 
and four in the morn. Call Mrs. Weeden; proves a rainy 
day. 

Nov. 21, 1694. My wife is brought to bed of a Daughter 
between 9. and 10. of the Clock in the morn. Mr. Torrey 
prayd with Mother and me in the Kitchen of the new house 
for that mercy; Mother desiring Him, saying that my wife 
was in great and more than ordinary Extremity, so that she 
was not able to endure the Chamber: I went also to acquaint 
Mr. Willard, and as I came back, I met Mrs. Perce, who 
wish’d me joy of my Daughter, as came in at the Gate. Mr. 
Torrey was prevail’d with to go into Chamber and Return 
Thanks to God. Women din’d with rost Beef and minc’d 
Pyes, good Cheese and Tarts. Grows to a very great Storm. 

Nov. 22. I put up a Bill for to Thank God for delivering 
my wife in childbearing; there was no other. Mr. Cotton 
Mather preached from Isa. 32. 2. taking occasion from the 
Storm. Lieut. Governour not at Meeting. Mr. Torrey and 
Fisk lodge here. 

Sabbath, Nov. 25, 1694. I named my little Daughter Sarah, 
Mr. Willard baptiz’d her. Lydia Cornish, and Joseph Scot 
were baptiz’d at the same time. Mr. Jorrey said, call her 
Sarah and make a Madam of her. I was strugling whether to 
call her Sarah or Mehetabel; but when I saw Sarah’s stand- 
ing int the Scripture, viz: Peter, Galatians, Hebrews, Romans, 
I resolv’d on that side. Also Mother Sewall had a sister 
Sarah; and none of my sisters of that name. 

Dec. 4, 1694. Lieut. Governour calls at ’s entrance into 
the Town; I told him I had spoken to Mr. Willard to pray; 
tells me of his intended Treat at Mr. Coopers, and enquires 


SEWALL’S DIARY 119 


whom He had best to invite. Between 2. and 3. P.M. we 
meet at Mr. Secretaries, from thence go to the Townhouse; 
viz. Lieut. Governour, Mr. Danforth, Gedney, Russel, Cook, 
Phillips, Brown, Hathorne, Addington, Sewall, Lynde, Hook, 
Sergeant. Mr. Willard prayed. ‘Then Lieut. Governour 
made a brave Speech upon the occasion of the Government’s 
being fallen on Him. After this, Col. Hutchinson came in 
and made 13. 

After twas debated, and several Acts of Parliament view’d, 
gave the Lieut. Governour an Oath for his due Execution of 
the Acts referring to Navigation, so far as they concern the 
Plantations. Voted a Letter to be sent to the Government of 
Rode-Island that they would discountenance Capt. Tu’s pro- 
ceedings. Voted Capt. Hamond, of Kittery, Register and 
Clerk in the room of Capt. Wincoll, deceased; at the Instance 
of Major Hook. Lieut. Governour invites, and we go to Mr. 
Cooper’s, where a Splendid Treat is provided, most cold meat. 
Councillors, Ministers, Justices there, and Col. Shrimpton, 
Mr. E™ Hutchinson, &c. Mr. Increase Mather Crav’d a 
Blessing; Mr. Willard return’d Thanks. 

I mov’d Mr. Willard and Mr. Cotton Mather, that, seeing 
the Old and South Church fell short in their singing on the 
Thanksgiving-day, might make it up now, if they saw meet: 
Mr. Willard said would sing what He intended then, pre- 
vented by the night: Ask’d Lieut. Governour and read the 
47. Ps. Clap hands.—Spake to me and I set it. Lieut. Gov’. 
Usher was invited, but not there; He is gon to Prison this 
afternoon, as tis said, upon Mr. Shrimpton’s Execution. 

Feb. 9, 16945. Jacob Mason, the Instrument-maker, died 
last night very suddenly, as he sat in a chair at the widow 
Hanah Cowell’s, where he was instructing a young man in the 
Mariner’s Art. ‘This day there is a very extraordinary Storm 
of Snow. It seems Jacob Mason was in Drink. 

Feb. 12, 16944. Mrs. Moodey is stricken with the Palsie 
in her right side, and is made speechless. Mr. Moodey is sent 


120 SEW VAIL Li/S DiLAtRa Ys 


for. The last night and this day, Feb. 12, the wether is ex- 
tream Cold which Mrs. Moodey always hardly bears. 

Feb. 15. Bastian fetches Sam’s Chest from Mr. Perry’s. It 
falls out so that neither he nor Mrs. Perry are at home. I 
gave the maid 124 and Robin a Real. 

Third-Day, Feb. 19, 16944. Salem-Chamber [Prayer], 
Samuel to be disposed to such a Master and Calling, as 
wherein he may abide with God. Jane, and Fathers family. 

Assembly that is to sit next week, that may be directed and 
succeeded by God, to doe for the Salvation of the Province. 
That a Man after God’s own heart may be chosen for a Judge. 
Fronteers from Albany and Kinderhook, to Pemaquid. 
Spring. England. 

Fourth-day, March 6, 16945. I had got a printed List of 
all the Councillors names except the Judges, that might serve 
for a Nomination, and indented them with Scissers, and so 
every one took as it pleas’d him, and put into Mr. Secretaries 
Hat. Elisha Cooke, Esqr. had Twenty Votes. Barthol. Ged- 
ney, John Hathorne, Elisha Hutchinson, John Foster, and 
Nathanael Thomas Esqrs. had One Vote apiece; which made 
up the whole number of Electors: for the Lieut. Governour 
voted not, sustaining the place of Governour; Col. Pynchon 
was not here, and Major Hook dead. So there remained 25. 
This day Joseph Belknaps little Son of about 4 years old, falls 
into scalding Wort and is kill’d. On the Sabbath a Roxbury 
Woman fell off her Horse and is since dead: On the day be- 
fore, one Trusedal, of Newton, was pulling Hay from an un- 
dermined Mow in the Barn, which fell upon him and kill’d 
him. Mr. Wheelwright is chosen to succeed Major Hook as. 
to the Probat of Wills, and Mr. Peperill as a Justice of the 
Inferiour Court. Mr. Elatson buryed his wife this day. 
Bearers had Scarfs and Rings; was buryed from Mr. Cole- 
mans. 

March 18, 16944. Last night I dream’d that all my Chil- 
dren were dead except Sarah; which did distress me sorely with 


SEWALL’S DIARY I2I 


Reflexions on my Omission of Duty towards them, as well as 
Breaking oft the Hopes I had of them. ‘The Lord help me 
thankfully and fruitfully to enjoy them, and let that be a 
means to awaken me. ‘This day Tim. Clark is buried, a great 
Funeral. He never spake after his Fall. Great Snow on the 
Ground. 

March 29, 1695. Went to the Meeting at Mr. Olivers: 
Major Walley sat next me, and presently after the Exercise, 
ask’d me if I heard the sad News from England, and then told 
me the Queen was dead, which was the first I heard of it. It 
seems Capt. Allen arriv’d yesterday at Marblehead, who 
brought the News, and fill’d the Town with it this day. It 
seems the Queen died on the 27 of December, having been 
sick four days of the Small Pocks. C. Allen was at Coruna 
about the Groin, when the Packuet came thether that brought 
the News of it: Whereupon the Fleet performed their usual 
Ceremonies, and the Merchants went into Mourning. Mr. 
Willard preached from Jn° 21—21, 22. to prepare men to 
acquiesce in the Soveraign Disposal of God as to mens honour- 
ing of Him in Doing, or Suffering, or both. 

April 1, 1695. Joseph speaking about my sending two 
Frenchmen to prison upon the Act relating to them, said, If 
this Country stand when I am a Man, I’ll drive them all out. 

April 3, 1695. I planted Two Locusts, two Elms at 
Wheelers pond, and one in Elm-Pasture near the Line over 
against the Middle-Elm. The middle Locust-Tree at Wheelers 
pond was set there the last year. 

Apr. 5. There is pretty much Thunder and Lightening 
about break of day. “Thunder seem’d to me like Great Guns at 
first. 

Tuesday, Apr. 9, 1695. Piam Blower and others from Vir- 
ginia and Barbados bring a Confirmation of the Queens death: 
and Report that the French King is dead; and his Gen! Lux- 
emburg; that two other duelled for the honour of his place, one 
fell, and the other went over to the Confederats. Ketch arrived 


122 SEW. ALL Li Se DelAbRay 


that came from Plimouth the Tenth of February. This day 
father Daws makes my little Bridge. 

Apr. 10. When I rise in the morn I find the Ground and 
houses covered with Snow. Be it that Lewis the 14‘ be indeed 
dead &c. yet we may have a sharp, though short winter in New 
England still. God defend. 

Apr. 24. We are told from Madera, that one of the Mast- 
Ships is Taken and that Lewis 14 is yet alive. Very wet and 
Rainy Wether. 

Monday, April 29, 1695. The morning is very warm and 
Sunshiny; in the Afternoon there is Thunder and Lightening, 
and about 2. P.M. a very extraordinary Storm of Hail, so that 
the ground was made white with it, as with the blossoms when 
fallen; ’twas as bigg as pistoll and Musquet Bullets; It broke 
of the Glass of the new House about 480 Quarrels [Squares] 
of the Front; of Mr. Sergeant’s about as much; Col. Shrimp- 
ton, Major General, Gov’ Bradstreet, New Meetinghouse, Mr. 
Willard, &c. Mr. Cotton Mather dined with us, and was with 
me in the new Kitchen when this was; He had just been men- 
tioning that more Ministers Houses than others proportion- 
ably had been smitten with Lightening; enquiring what the 
meaning of God should be in it. Many Hail-Stones broke 
throw the Glass and flew to the middle of the Room, or 
farther: People afterward Gazed upon the House to see its 
Ruins. I got Mr. Mather to pray with us after this awfull 
Providence; He told God He had broken the brittle part of 
our house, and prayd that we might be ready for the time 
when our Clay-Tabernacles should be broken. ‘Twas a sorrow- 
full thing to me to see the house so far undon again before twas 
finish’d. It seems at Milton on the one hand, and at Lewis’s 
on the other, there was no Hail. 

I mentioned to Mr. Mather that Monmouth made his dis- 
cent into England about the time of the Hail in ’85, Sumer, 
that much cracked our South-west windows. Col. Archdel! 


SEWALL’S DIARY 122 


Governour of Carolina comes to Town from Portsmouth this 
night. 

May 5, 1695. About 3 hours News comes to Town of the 
death of Sir William Phips, Feb. 18° at which people are gen- 
erally sad. Lay sick about a week of the new Fever as ’tis 
called. Cous. Hull says the talk is Mr. Dudley will be Gov- 
ernour. ‘Tis said the King goes over Sea again, and Seven per- 
sons are to have the Regency in his absence. 

May 6. The mourning Guns are fired at the Castle and 
Town for the Death of our Governour. Representatives the 
same as before, chosen this day. 

May 8, 1695. I visit my Lady, who takes on heavily for 
the death of Sir William. ‘Thinks the Lieutenant and Coun- 
cil were not so kind to him as they should have been. Was 
buried out of Salters Hall. This day, May 8, we have News 
of the Taking of Seven Vessels by a small French Pickeroon. 
One is a Briganteen, Mr. Greenwood, Master, out of which 
had 1000£ Money. Neither of the Frigats is yet got out. 

Friday, June 21. My dear Mother Hull tells me of Capt. 
Daviss Invitation, and bids me to remember to be at the Meet- 
ing. Mr. Willard preaches excellently. At home, at prayer, 
we read the 16. of the Revelation; I spake somthing to the 
Sixth Vial, but little thought how presently those awfull 
Words, Behold I come as a Thief! did concern me and my 
whole family: And then, and at prayer with my Wife in the 
Chamber, was wofully drowsy and stupid. About one at night, 
Jane comes up with an unusual Gate, and gives us an account 
of Mothers Illness, not being able to speak of a considerable 
time. I went to Capt. Daviss and fetched some Trecle Water 
and Syrup of Saffron; Dame Ellis made a Cake of Herbs to 
try to strengthen Mothers Stomach. In the morn Roger Judd 
is sent to Cambridge for Dr. Oliver, mother chusing to speak 
with him and no other. When he comes he advises to a Plais- 
ter for the Stomach, which is aplied; and a Potion made of 
Bezar [Bezoar] to be taken in Syrup of Saffron and Treacle 


124 SEW ALLS Da RW 


water; of which took once or twice. About 8. or 9. I call’d 
Mr. Willard at her desire, who prays with her. Finding the 
room free once, and observing her very great weakness; I took 
the oportunity to thank her for all her Labours of Love to me 
and mine, and ask’d her pardon of our undutifullness; She, 
after a while, said, God Pity "Em; which was the last prayer 
I heard her make. About six I ask’d if I should call Mr. Wil- 
lard, (for had said to him that he should come again if he 
could). As far as I could perceive, she said, Not so soon. But 
I called, or sent; yet could not discern any attention to the 
prayer, her disease had prevail’d so far, and a little before 
Sunset she expired, to our very surprising Grief and Sorrow. 
Roger Judd was here about noon, and said, that when some 
in the next room spake about who should Watch, my dear 
Mother answer’d, She should need no Watchers, she should 
be above at Rest. 

June 24. About Seven aclock, my dear Mother is entombed. 
Bearers, Mr. Danforth, Russell, Cooke, Elisha Hutchinson, 
Addington, Sergeant. 

July 7. Gov". Bradstreet is seised again with his old pains. 

July 15. I discourse Capt. Sam!. Checkly about his taking 
Sam. to be his Prentice. He seems to incline to it; and in a 
maner all I mention it to encourage me. The good Lord direct 
and prosper. 

July 12, 1695. Kept a Day of Prayer in secret Respecting 
my dear Mother’s death; and Sam’s being to be placed out, &c. 

July 26, 1695. Poor little Mary falls down into the Cellar 
of Matthias Smith’s house, and cuts her head against the 
Stones, making a large orifice of more than two inches long; 
twas about 6 post meridiem. "The Lord sanctify to me this 
bloody Accident. 

Augt. 6, 1695. Mr. Obinson’s wife comes to me and com- 
plains of her Husband’s ill usage of her; kick’d her out of bed 
last night; lets her have nothing but water to drink, won’t let 
her have Cloths or victuals. ‘This was 2 post meridiem. 


SEWALL’S DIARY eis 


Fifth-day, Augt. 8, 1695. About 9. M. little Sarah has a 
Convulsion Fit; I and Mr. Torrey were sent for to see it. It 
lasted not long. When all quiet, Mr. Torrey went to Prayer. 
A little after Lecture, Sarah has another sore Fit. My wife 
and I take her to bed with us. 

Augt. 8, 1695. About six in the Morn. Sarah has another 
sore Fit in her Mother’s arms presently after she was brought 
down. 

Third-day, Augt. 13, 1695. We have a Fast kept in our 
new Chamber. Mr. Willard begins with Prayer, and preaches 
from 2 Chron. 34. 27. Mr. Allen prays. P.M. Mr. Bayly 
begins with prayer, preaches from Luke 1. 50, and then con- 
cludes with prayer. Sung the 27 Ps. 7—10. I set Windsor 
Tune and burst so into Tears that I could scarce continue 
singing. Mr. Thornton was here, but went away when Mr. 
Allen was at Prayer. Mr. Cook, and Mr. Addington here, 
Mr. Sergeant was diverted. Note. Had better have invited all 
the Council in Town, at least. I apointed this day to ask God’s 
Blessing after the death of my dear Mother, and in particular 
to bless Sam. with a Master and Calling and bless us in our 
new house. The Lord pardon and doe for us beyond our 
hopes, contrary to our Deserts. 

Augt. 25. Rob‘. Williams the Bell-Ringer, Publisher 
[Crier] and Grave-digger died this morn. He was suddenly 
stricken the fifth-day before, just after his ringing the five-a- 
clock Bell; fell down as essayed to go up his own stairs, and I 
think so continued speechless till death. Mr. Baily took notice 
of the Suddeness of it in his prayer. 

Second day, September 9, 1695. Set out for Bristow, with 
Mr. Danforth and Mr. Cook. Baited at Neponset, din’d at 
Billenges, where were also Mr. Newton and Mr. Cary; went 
to Woodcock’s, refresh’d there, so to Rehoboth; lodgd at the 
Bear, Sheriff was there to meet us; Major Generall also lodged 
there in his way home from New-London. 


‘Third-day, Sept. 10. Yo Bristow by the Bridge. Had two 


126 SEWALL’S DIARY 


Actions concerning Land. Sup at Mr. Saffin’s. I lodgd at 
Mr. Wilkins’s. Major Church is sick, I visit him; came with 
Mr. Danforth to Taunton, there din’d; from thence to Bridge- 
water, visited Mr. Keith. Lodg’d at our Landlord Hayward’s, 
who, by Mr. Danforth’s procurement, pray’d with us very 
well in the evening. Mr. Cook was sick and scarce slept all 
night. 

In the morn, Sept. 12, set out about Sunrise; din’d at Mr. 
Pain’s at Braintrey, got home a little after one of the Clock, 
and find all well, blessed be God. 

Sept. 17, 1695. Gov". Bradstreet has the remainder of his 
Goods put on board Mr. Graften; The house being empty, I 
prevail with him and his Lady to walk to our house, and wish 
us joy of it. They sat there near an hour with Mrs. Corwin 
and Wharton. Gov". Bradstreet drank a glass or two of wine, 
eat some fruit, took a pipe of Tabacco in the new Hall, and 
wish’d me joy of the house, and desired our prayers; came to 
us over the little Stonebridge; went away between 12. and 1. 
in Madam Richard’s new Coach and horses. About three, the 
Lieut. Governour, Mr. Secretary, Sergeant and Sewall waited 
on them at Madam Richards’s, to take leave; in the way the 
Letter met us giving an account of ten men shot at Pemaquid, 
out of 24. going to get wood: four of whom are dead. Hugh 
March, George’s Son, was killed at the first shot. ‘This was 
Monday was Senight. This day, Sept. 17, was a great Train- 
ing at Boston: many Gentlemen and Gentlewomen dine in 
Tents on the Common. Colonel had a Standard: Great firings 
most of the day. I should have remembered that Gov’. Brad- 
street this day sent the Halberts, Copies of the Records, and a 
Loadstone belonging to the Publick, to the Secretary, who 
caus’d them to be lodg’d at present in the Town-house Cham- 
ber; where I saw them when went to write Letters to Capt. 
March. 

Sept. 18. Gov" Bradstreet sets sail for Salem about Six 
aclock in the morning. 


SEWALL’S DIARY 127 


This day Mr. Torrey and his wife, Mr. Willard and his 
wife, and Cous. Quinsey dine with us; ’tis the first time has 
been at our house with his new wife; was much pleas’d with 
our painted shutters; in pleasancy said he thought he had been 
got into Paradise. "This day, Sept. 18, Mr. Cook enters the 
Lists with Col. Paige, and sues for Capt. Keyn’s Farm again. 
Gov". Bradstreet arriv’d at Salem about 3 P.M. 

Sixth-day, Sept. 20. Mr. Borland’s Briganteen arrives, 6 
weeks from Falmouth, in whom comes Mr. Edward Brattle, 
Mr. Governeur, &c. ‘The Lord Bellamont is made our Goy- 
ernour. Hardly will come over before the Spring. 

Oct. 12. Jn° Cunable finishes the Stairs out of the wooden 
house to the top of the Brick house. Little Mary grows a little 
better after very sore illness. 

Oct. 7%, Jn° Brown’s family, of Turkey hill, are led cap- 
tive. All are brought back save one boy that was kill’d; 
knock’d the rest on the head, save an infant. 

Oct. 14, 1695. I visit Mrs. Saunderson and pray God to 
grant her Mercy and Grace to help in time of need. Oct. 15. 
She dies. Oct. 17. Buried, so that house is emptied of its 
ancient Inhabitants. Sewall, Dumer, Frary, Butler, Hill, 
Maryon, bearers. Lord teach me to abide in, and to go out of 
the world. Mr. Moodey at the Funeral. 

Seventh day, Oct. 19, 1695. Pray’d for God’s Favour to- 
wards Sam. That might duely wait on Christ at his Table to 
morrow &c., with fasting. 

Oct. 26. Mr. Banistar watches, and calls me about break 
of day to see the Comet, which seems to point from East to 
West. 

Dec. 19. Thomas Maule, Shopkeeper of Salem, is brought 
before the Council to answere for his printing and publishing 
a pamphlet quarto, 260. pages, entituled Truth held forth and 
maintained, owns the book, but will not own all till sees his 
Copy which is at N. York with Bradford who printed it. 
Saith he writt ta the Gavernour of New York before he could 





128 SEiw.Ad- Le SuD TARAS 


get it printed. Book is order’d to be burnt, being stuff’d with 
notorious Lyes and Scandals, and he Recognises to answer at 
next Court of Assize and General Goal Delivery to be held for 
the County of Essex. He acknowledg’d that what was written 
concerning the circumstance of Major General Athertons 
death, was a mistake: p. 112, 113. was chiefly insisted on 
against him; which believe was a surprize to him, he expecting 
to be examined in some point of Religion, as should seem by 
his bringing his Bible under his Arm. 

I was with Dame Walker, and Sam. came to call me to take 
T. Maule’s Recognisance; I told her Sam. was there: she 
pray’d God to bless him, and to bless all my posterity. 

Dec. 20. Dame Walker is very restless; said she was past 
all food now, had quite lost her Appetite. Said, why does 
living man complain, man for the punishment of his Sin? Jus- 
tified God, and pray’d Him to help her, and enable her to bear 
what He laid on her; spoke how hard twas to comply with 
that Text, Thy will be done; we would fain have our own 
Wills; but God could of unwilling make us willing. Last 
night she pray’d that God would take her to Himself. When 
I took leave this morn, she Thank’d me for all my Visits, and 
acknowledged the kindness of me and my family. After I was 
gon, in the Afternoon, Dec. 20. Mehetabel sais she heard her 
Grandmother say, How long Lord, how long? Come Lord 
Jesus! Mehetabel asked what she said to her, she reply’d, How 
good is God. 

Seventh day, Dec. 21. Between 8. and 9. I went to see 
Dame Walker, and found her very weak and much alter’d. 
Mehetabel told her I was there, she said with a low voice, I 
thank him. Afterward Mehetabel ask’d her if should pray, 
she said, I stand in need. “T'was the last day of the Week, and 
so I went to prayer, insisting on God’s being a present help in 
time of need, and pray’d that God would strengthen her Faith, 
that so she might enter into his Rest. I ask’d her if she heard, 
her Answer was, I thank God, I did. I went home to Prayer, 


SEWALL’S DIARY 129 


Intending after that to go to Mr. Willard to pray him to 
give her one Lift more heaven-ward. But before I could get 
away, a Girl came runing to call me. And by that time I 
could get thether, the Good woman had expired, or was just 
expiring, being about Ten of the clock in the morning. God 
fulfilled his good Word in her and kept her Leaf from wither- 
ing. 

She had an odd Conceipt all the last night of her life, that 
she was in Travail; and though she ceas’d groaning and gave 
attention to me when at prayer; yet one of the last words I 
heard her say, was, My child is dead within me; which were 
indeed some of the very last. 

Secund day, Jan. 6 16954. Kept a Day of Fasting with 
Prayer for the Conversion of my Son, and his settlement in a 
Trade that might be good for Soul and body. Uvor praegnans 
est. Governour’s expected Arrival, which will bring great 
changes. Suply for the South-Church. ‘Three Courts sit to 
morrow. Lord’s Supper the next Sabbath-day. Mr. Moodey’s 
Entanglements, Watertown. Church of England. New Eng- 
land. My Hair. Read Epistles to Timothy, Titus, Phil- 
emon, Hebrews. Sung the 143, 51, and 130. Psalms. I had 
hope that seeing God pardon’d all Israel’s Iniquities, He would 
pardon mine, as being part of Israel. 

Jan. 11. 16954. I write a Letter to Mr. Zech. Walker 
acquainting him with his Mother’s death and Funeral; that 
some Recompence ought to be made to Mehetabel and Mary 
for their faithfull and Laborious Attendance on their Grand- 
mother. Altho’ I reckon my self abundantly satisfied for any 
little Service I did or could doe for our dear friend, by her 
desireable Company and harty Thanks; yet I earnestly desire 
your Prayers, that my aged Father and Mother may live and 
die with such like Faith and frame of Spirit as this our Sarah 
did. I delivered this Letter to be given to the Post on Second 
day morning, Jan. 13, 169%. 

About 10. aclock Jan. 13, 16954. Cous. Dumer came to 


130 SEWALL’S DIARY 


invite me to goe along with him to Cambridge to visit Mr. 
Danforth. About Noon we set out, and at Mr. Danforth’s 
Gate, meet with Mr. N. Hobart and Trowbridge; Mr. Dan- 
forth made us dine there; then after awhile, Mr. Hobart was 
called in to Pray, which he did excellently, Mr. Morton being 
by, who came with us from the Colledge. Note. When were 
there at first, Mr. Danforth bad me look on the Cup-board’s 
head for a book; I told him I saw there a Law-book, Wingate 
on the Common Law. He said he would lend it me, I should 
speak to Amsden to call for it; and if he died, he would give 
it me. Again when took leave after prayer, He said he lent me 
that Book not to wrap up but to read, and if misliked it, should 
tell him of it. By that time Cous. and I could get to the Ferry 
twas quite dark. Capt. Hunting told us the River was full of 
Ice and no getting over. But I went to Sheaf and he hallowed 
over Jn° Russell again. Boat came to Ballard’s Wharf below 
the lodg’d Ice, from whence had a very comfortable Passage 
over with Madam Foxcroft. 

When I came in, past 7. at night, my wife met me in the 
Entry and told me Betty had surprised them. I was surprised 
with the abruptness of the Relation. It seems Betty Sewall 
had given some signs of dejection and sorrow; but a little after 
diner she burst out into an amazing cry, which caus’d all the 
family to cry too; Her Mother ask’d the reason; she gave 
none; at last said she was afraid she should goe to Hell, her 
Sins were not pardon’d. She was first wounded by my reading 
a Sermon of Mr. Norton’s, about the 5° of Jan. Text Jn° 
7. 34. Ye shall seek me and shall not find me. And those 
words in the Sermon, Jn° 8. 21. Ye shall seek me and shall 
die in your sins, ran in her mind, and terrified her greatly. And 
staying at home Jan. 12. she read out of Mr. Cotton Mather— 
Why hath Satan filled thy heart, which increas’d her Fear. Her 
Mother ask’d her whether she pray’d. She answer’d, Yes; but 
feared her prayers were not heard because her Sins not par- 
don’d. Mr. Willard though sent for timelyer, yet not being 


SEWALL’S DIARY 131 


told of the message, till bruised Dinsdals [?] was given him; 
He came not till after I came home. He discoursed with Betty 
who could not give a distinct account, but was confused as his 
phrase was, and as had experienced in himself. Mr. Willard 
pray’d excellently. ‘The Lord bring Light and Comfort out of 
this dark and dreadful Cloud, and Grant that Christ’s being 
formed in my dear child, may be the issue of these painfull 
pangs. 

Feb. 1. 16954. Sam. Haugh came to speak about Frank’s 
burial: I sent Atherton away before and spake to Sam as to his 
Mistress’ Maid being with child, and that she Laid it to him, 
and told him if she were with child by him, it concerned him 
seriously to consider what were best to be done; and that a 
Father was obliged to look after Mother and child. Christ 
would one day call him to an account and demand of him 
what was become of the child: and if [he] married not the 
woman, he would always keep at a distance from those whose 
temporal and spiritual good he was bound to promote to the 
uttermost of his power. Could not discern that any impres- 
sion was made on him. I remark’d to him the unsuitableness 
of his frame under a business of so great and solemn Concern. 

Sixth-day, Feb. 7%. Capt. Frary was pass’d by, though 
there, which several took notice of. Note. Last night Sam. 
could not sleep because of my Brother’s speaking to him of re- 
moving to some other place, mentioning Mr. Usher’s. I put 
him to get up a little wood, and he even fainted, at which 
Brother was much startled, and advis’d to remove him forth- 
with and place him somewhere else, or send him to Salem and 
he would doe the best he could for him. Since, I have ex- 
press'd doubtfullness to Sam. as to his staying there. 

He mention’d to me Mr. Wadsworth’s Sermon against Idle- 
ness, which was an Affliction to him. He said his was an idle 
Calling, and that he did more at home than there, take one day 
with another. And he mention’d Mr. Stoddard’s words to me, 
that should place him with a good Master, and where had full- 


132 SEWALL’S DIARY 


ness of Imployment. It seems Sam. overheard him, and now 
alleged these words against his being where he was because of 
his idleness. Mention’d also the difficulty of the imployment 
by reason of the numerousness of Goods and hard to distin- 
guish them, many not being marked; whereas Books, the price 
of them was set down, and so could sell them readily. I spake 
to Capt. Checkly again and again, and he gave me no encour- 
agement that his being there would be to Sam’s profit; and 
Mrs. Checklv always discouraging. 

Mr. Willard’s Sermon from those Words, What doest thou 
here Elijah? was an Occasion to hasten the Removal. 

Feb. 10. Secund-day. I went to Mr. Willard to ask 
whether had best keep him at home to day. He said, No: but 
tell Capt. Checkly first; but when I came back, Sam was weep- 
ing and much discompos’d, and loth to goe because it was a 
little later than usual, so I thought twas hardly fit for him to 
go in that Case, and went to Capt. Checkly and told him how 
it was, and thank’d him for his kindness to Sam. Capt. Checkly 
desired Sam. might come to their house and not be strange 
there, for which I thank’d him very kindly. He presented his 
Service to my wife, and I to his who was in her Chamber. 
Capt. Checkly gave me Sam’s Copy-book that lay in a drawer. 

Just before I got thether, I met Mr. Grafford who told me 
that Mumford said I was a knave. The good Lord give me 
Truth in the inward parts, and finally give Rest unto my dear 
Son, and put him into some Calling wherein He will accept 
of him to Serve Him. 

Sabbath, Feb. 16. 16954. Mr. Emmerson preaches twice 
in the. new Meetinghouse at Watertown, which is the first 
time. Capt. Checkly’s Son Samuel is baptized with us. I 
was very sorrowfull by reason of the unsettledness of my 
Samuel. 

Feb. 22. 16954. Betty comes into me almost as soon as I 
was up and tells me the disquiet she had when waked; told me 
was afraid should go to Hell, was like Spira, not Elected. Ask’d 


SEWALL’S DIARY 120 


her what I should pray for, she said, that God would pardon 
her Sin and give her a new heart. I answer’d her Fears as 
well as I could, and pray’d with many Tears on either part; 
hope God heard us. I gave her solemnly to God. 

Feb. 26. 16954. I pray’d with Sam. alone, that God would 
direct our way as to a Calling for him. 

It seems John Cornish essay’d yesterday to goe to carry 
Cloth to the fulling-mill, and perished in the Storm; this day 
was brought frozen to Town, a very sad spectacle. 

Sabbath, May 3, 1696. Betty can hardly read her chapter 
for weeping; tells me she is afraid she is gon back, does not 
taste that sweetness in reading the Word which once she did; 
fears that what was once upon her is worn off. I said what I 
could to her, and in the evening pray’d with her alone. 

Fifth-day, May 7, 1696. Col. Shrimpton marries his Son 
to his wive’s Sisters daughter, Elisabeth Richardson. All of the 
Council in Town were invited to the Wedding, and many 
others. Only I was not spoken to. As I was glad not to be 
there because the lawfullness of the intermarrying of Cousin- 
Germans is doubted; so it grieves me to be taken up in the Lips 
of Talkers, and to be in such a Condition that Col. Shrimp- 
ton shall be under a temptation in defence of Himself, to 
wound me; if any should hapen to say, Why was not such a 
one here? The Lord help me not to do, or neglect any thing 
that should prevent the dwelling of brethren together in unity. 

May 18. By reason of the Major Generall’s illness, I am 
forced to go to Ipswich Court; and being to go, my wife 
desir’d me to go on to Newbury; I went with Brother on 
Wednesday night. Visited Father, Mother, Friends, re- 
turn’d to Salem, got thether about Nine. Supp’d well with the 
Fish bought out of Wenham Pond. Between eleven and noon, 
‘Tho. Messenger comes in, and brings me the amazing news of 
my Wive’s hard Time and my Son’s being Still-born. We get 
up our Horses from the Ship, and set out by Starlight about 
12, yet the Bells rung for five before we got over the Ferry. 


134. SEWALL’S DIARY 


Found my wife as well as usually; but I was grievously stung 
to find a sweet desirable Son dead, who had none of my help 
to succour him and save his Life. “The Lord pardon all my 
Sin, and Wandering and Neglect, and sanctify to me this 
singular Affliction. 

27 At the Council the Lt. Gov’. reads the Letters that give 
notice from the Lords of a French Squadron intending for 
America: they will afford us what Assistance they can under 
the present Circumstance of Affairs. Reads also Mr. Blath- 
wayts Letter recomending the subscribing the Association by 
all in publick place and Trust, with one drawn for that pur- 
pose. ‘This day also receiv’d an Express from Col. Pynchon, 
of Count Frontenac’s coming agt the 5 Nations, or Albany, or 
N. E., or all, with 2000 French and 1000 Indians: Casteen 
with 4 or 500 to hold us in play the mean while. ‘The wind 
coming North last night ships arrive at Nantasket this morn. 
Mr. Myles and Bullivant come to Town. 

Fourth day Augt. 5. Mr. Melyen, upon a slight occasion, 
spoke to me very smartly about the Salem Witchcraft: in dis- 
course he said, if a man should take Beacon hill on ’s back, 
carry it away; and then bring it and set it in its place again, he 
should not make any thing of that. 

Seventh-day, Augt. 15%. Brot. St. Sewall comes to Town; 
Gets an order to Col. Hathorne for erecting a Beacon on 
Pigeon hill on Cape-Anne, and for pressing 20. men at Marble- 
head. ‘This day vessels arrive from Barbados, bring news of 
10. great ships at Petit Quavers, of between 60 and 90 Guns. 
Mr. Williams, the physician, and his wife are both dead. Mrs. 
Hatch and her children in Tears for the death of her husband, 
which was brought to her about an hour by Sun. We are in 
pain for Saco fort. Guns were heard thrice on fifth day all 
day long. One Peters and Hoyt scalp’d at Andover this week; 
were not shot, but knock’d on the head. 

Sept”. 10. Letter. Mrs. Martha Oakes. Not finding op- 
ortunity to speak with you at vour house, nor at my own, I 


SEWALL’S DIARY L265 


write, to persuade you to be sensible that your striking your 
daughter-in-law before me, in my house, is not justifiable: 
though twas but a small blow, twas not a small fault: espe- 
cially considering your promise to refrain from speech it self; 
or at least any that might give disturbance. As for New Eng- 
land, It is a cleaner Country than ever you were in before, and, 
therefore, with disdain to term it filthy, is a sort of Blasphemie, 
which, by proceeding out of your mouth, hath defiled you. I 
write not this to upbraid, but to admonish you, with whom I 
sympathize under your extraordinary provocations and pres- 
sures; and pray God comand you freedom from them. S. 8. 

S'. 16. Keep a day of Prayer in the East end of the Town- 
House, Gov", Council and Assembly. Mr. Morton begun 
with Prayer, Mr. Allin pray’d, Mr. Willard preached—If 
God be with us who can be against us?—-Spake smartly at last 
about the Salem Witchcrafts, and that no order had been suf- 
fer’d to come forth by Authority to ask Gods pardon. 

Oct". 3, 1696. Mr. Joseph Baxter lodges here, being to 
preach for Mr. Willard on the Sabbath: Deacon Frary came 
to me on Friday; told me Mr. Willard put him upon getting 
help on the fifth day at even, because disapointed of Mr. Spar- 
hawk. He sent that even to Braintrey; but for fear of failing 
rode thether himself on Sixth-day morn and secured Him: 
After the Meeting at Bro’. Wheelers, came and told me of it, 
and earnestly proposed to me that He might lodge at my house; 
which I thought I could not avoid except I would shut my 
doors against one of Christ’s servants; which I also inclin’d 
to, only was afraid lest som should take offence. And my 
Library was convenient for Him. 

Fifth day Oct™ 22. Capt. Byfield Marries his daughter De- 
bora to James Lyde, before Mr. Willard. Mr. Sparhawk 
would have had her. Oct™. 29'® Clouds hinder our sight of the 
eclipsed Moon; though tis aparently dark by means of it. 

Oct’ 30. Mr. Wigglesworth tells me that one John Buck- 
nam of Malden, above 50 years old, has been perfectly dumb 


136 SEWALL’S DIARY 


near 18 years, and now within about 3 weeks has his under- 
standing and speech restored. He is much affected with the 
Goodness of God to him herein. 

24 day, Nov’ 2. Mary goes to Mrs. Thair’s to learn to 
Read and Knit. 

Second-day, Nov". 30. Many Scholars go in the After noon 
to Scate on Fresh-pond; William Maxwell, and John Eyre 
fall in and are drown’d. Just about Candle-lighting the news 
of it is brought to Town, which affects persons exceedingly. 
Mr. Eyre the father cryes out bitterly. Decr. 1. The body 
of Jn° Eyre is brought to Town. Dec'. 3. is buried. Minis- 
ters of Boston had Gloves and Rings, Counsellors Gloves, of 
Boston. Bearers, Hutchinson, Dudley, Sim. Bradstreet, 
Dumer Jer., Jn° Winthrop, Belchar. Maxwell was buried at 
Cambridge. Paul Miller, his 2 sons, and about 4 more 
drowned last week; vessel and corn lost coming from Barstable. 

Dec’. 2. 1696. Now about Capt. Byfield brings in a long 
Bill from the deputys for a Fast and Reformation, written by 
Mr. Cotton Mather, to which a Streamer was added expressing 
that Partiality in Courts of Justice was obvious; with a Vote 
on it that 500 should be printed, should be read; and sent up 
for Concurrence: ’twas deny’d; and our Bill for a Fast was 
sent down; Dept® deny’d; and our Bill for a Fast was sent 
down; Dept® deny’d that. Gov’. told them the way was un- 
usual, they had taken, sending out a Comittee, calling the Min- 
isters, voting all, and never letting the Council know: that it 
pertain’d principally to the Gov". and Council to set forth such 
orders with a motion from them. A while after Capt. Byfield 
came in, and said ’twas no new thing, and they had taken no 
wrong step. Little was said to him. It seems this message 
is enter’d in their Booke. The Council were exceedingly 
grieved to be thus roughly treated. About Dec’. 18, Mr. Ma- 
ther, Allen, Willard, C. Mather give in a paper subscribed by 
them, shewing their dislike of our draught for the Colledge 


SUR WrA tal) (oD iA Ray 137 


Charter, and desiring that their Names might not be entered 
therein. One chief reason was their apointing the Gov’. and 
Council for Visitor. 

Dec’. 21. A very great Snow is on the Ground. I go in 
the morn to Mr. Willard, to entreat him to chuse his own time 
to come and pray with little Sarah: He comes a little before 
night, and prays very fully and well. Mr. Mather, the Pres- 
ident, had pray? with her in the time of the Courts sitting. 
Dec’. 22. being Catechising day, I give Mr. Willard a note to 
pray for my daughter publickly, which he did. Note, this 
morn Madam Elisa Bellingham came to our house and up- 
braided me with setting my hand to pass Mr. Wharton’s acc? 
to the Court, where he obtain’d a Judgmt for Eustace’s farm. 
I was wheadled and hector’d into that business, and have all 
along been uneasy in the remembrance of it: and now there is 
one come who will not spare to lay load. “The Lord take 
away my filthy garments, and give me change of Rayment. 
This day I remove poor little Sarah into my Bed-chamber, 
where about Break of Day Dec’. 23. she gives up the Ghost in 
Nurse Cowell’s Arms. Born, Nov. 21. 1694. Neither I nor 
my wife were by: Nurse not expecting so sudden a change, 
and having promis’d to call us. I thought of Christ’s Words, 
could you not watch with me one hour! and would fain have 
sat up with her: but fear of my wives illness, who is very 
valetudinarious, made me to lodge with her in the new Hall, 
where was call’d by Jane’s Cry, to take notice of my dead 
daughter. Nurse did long and pathetically ask our pardon 
that she had not call’d us, and said she was surpriz*. ‘Thus 
this very fair day is rendered fowl to us by reason of the gen- 
eral Sorrow and ears in the family. Master Chiever was 
here the evening before, I desir’d him to pray for my daughter. 
‘The Chapt’ read in course on Dec’. 23. m. was Deut. 22. which 
made me sadly reflect that I had not been so thorowly tender of 
my daughter; nor so effectually carefull of her Defence and 
preservation as I should have been. The good Lord pity and 


138 SEWAL LY! SOAR 


pardon and help for the future as to those God has still left 
me. 

Dect 24. Sam. recites to me in Latin, Mat. 12. from the 
6 to the end of the 12° v. The 7 verse did awfully bring 
to mind the Salem Tragedie. 

6 day, Dec’. 25, 1696. We bury our little daughter. In 
the chamber, Joseph in course reads Ecclesiastes 3°. a time to 
be born and a time to die—Elisabeth, Rev. 22. Hanah, the 38" 
Psalm. I speak to each, as God helped, to our mutual com- 
fort I hope. I order’d Sam. to read the 102. Psalm. Elisha 
Cooke, Edw. Hutchinson, John Baily, and Josia Willard bear 
my little daughter to the Tomb. 

Note. ‘Iwas wholly dry, and I went at noon to see in what 
order things were set; and there I was entertain’d with a view 
of, and converse with, the Coffins of my dear Father Hull, 
Mother Hull, Cousin Quinsey, and my Six Children: for the 
little posthumous was now took up and set in upon that that 
stands on John’s: so are three, one upon another twice, on the 
bench at the end. My Mother ly’s on a lower bench, at the 
end, with head to her Husband’s head: and I order’d little 
Sarah to be set on her Grandmother’s feet. ’Iwas an awfull 
yet pleasing Treat; Having said, The Lord knows who shall 
be brought hether next, I came away. 

Mr. Willard pray’d with us the night before; I gave him a 
Ring worth about 20%. Sent the President one, who is sick of 
the Gout. He pray? with my little daughter. Mr. Oakes, the 
Physician, Major Townsend, Speaker, of whoes wife I was a 
Bearer, and was join’d with me in going to Albany and has 
been Civil and treated me several times. Left a Ring at 
Madam Cooper’s for the Governour. Gave not one pair of 
Gloves save to the Bearers. Many went to the Church this 
day, I met them coming home, as went to the Tomb. 7 day 
Dect 26. Roger Judd tells me of a ship arriv’d at Rode Island 
from England, and after, that Mr. Ive has written that most 
judged the King of France was dead, or dying. Ship comes 


SEWALL’S DIARY 139 


from New Castle, several weeks after the Falkland. Jan” 1. 
6 day 16964. One with a Trumpet sounds a Levet [Blast] 
at our window just about break of day, bids me good morrow 
and wishes health and hapiness to attend me. I was awake be- 
fore, and my wife, so we heard him: but went not to the 
window, nor spake a word. ‘The Lord fit me for his coming 
in whatsoever way it be. Mr. Willard had the Meeting at his 
house to day, but We had no Invitation to be there as is usual. 

On the 22 of May I buried my abortive son; so neither of 
us were then admitted of God to be there, and now the 
Owners of the family admit us not: It may be I must never 
more hear a Sermon there. The Lord pardon all my Sins of 
Omission and Commission: and by his Almighty power make 
me meet to be partaker of the Inheritance with the S* in 
Light. Second-day Jan’ 11, 1696 God helped me to pray 
more than ordinarily, that He would make up our Loss in the 
burial of our little daughter and other children, and that would 
give us a Child to Serve Him, pleading with Him as the In- 
stitutor of Marriage, and the Author of every good work. 
Jan’ 15. Gridley’s wife dies in child-bed. 


[PETITION PUT UP BY Mr. SEWALL ON THE Fast Day.] 


Copy of the Bill I put up on the Fast day; giving it to Mr. 
Willard as he pass’d by, and standing up at the reading of it, 
and bowing when finished; in the Afternoon. 

Samuel Sewall, sensible of the reiterated strokes of God 
upon himself and family; and being sensible, that as to the 
Guilt contracted upon the opening of the late Comission of 
Oyer and Terminer at Salem (to which the order for this Day 
relates) he is, upon many accounts, more concerned than any 
that he knows of, Desires to take the Blame and shame of it, 
Asking pardon of men, And especially desiring prayers that 
God, who has an Unlimited Authority, would pardon that sin 
and all other his sins; personal and Relative: And according to 


140 SEWALL’S DIARY 


his infinite Benignity, and Sovereignty, Not Visit the sin of 
him, or of any other, upon himself or any of his, nor upon the 
Land: But that He would powerfully defend him against all 
‘Temptations to Sin, for the future; and vouchsafe him the efh- 
cacious, saving Conduct of his Word and Spirit. 


Jan’ 26. 169% I lodged at Charlestown, at Mrs. Shepards, 
who tells me Mr. Harvard built that house. I lay in the 
chamber next the street. As I lay awake past midnight, In my 
Meditation, I was affected to consider how long agoe God had 
made provision for my comfortable Lodging that night; seeing 
that was Mr. Harvards house: And that led me to think of 
Heaven the House not made with hands, which God for many 
‘Thousands of years has been storing with the richest furniture 
(saints that are from time to time placed there), and that I 
had some hopes of being entertain’d in that Magnificent Con- 
venient Palace, every way fitted and furnished. ‘These 
thoughts were very refreshing to me. 

Jan¥ 28. 1696 Mr. Palmer marries Mrs. Abigail Hutch- 
inson. Febr. 4 Bro™ Hawkins and his wife, the TThurtons, Sam. 
and Atherton Haugh, Joseph Gerrish and W™. Longfellow 
dine with us. Febr. 5. extream cold, which discern not when 
Joseph went away. ‘This evening Mr. Willard, Bromfield, 
Eyre, Sergeant, Frary, Hill, Williams, Oliver, Checkly, Davis, 
Wally, Stoddard, met at my house. Mr. Willard pray’d. 
‘Then discours’ what was best to be done relating to the desires 
of some for a meeting; whether twere best to call one, or no. 
Mr. Willard shew’ his resentments of the disorderly carriage 
in striving to bring in Mr. Bradstreet, after only thrice preach- 
ing [as a candidate for the South Church], and that in that 
way, he should not be settled with us till he Mr. W. was in his 
Grave. ‘That he had a Negative, and was not only a Mod- 
erator. Shew’d his dislike of the Person and his Preaching, 
inferiour to the ministerial Gifts of others. Before the Meet- 


SEWALL’S DIARY I4t 


ing broke up, I said his Preaching was very agreeable to me, 
I thought not of him, had no hand in bringing him to preach, 
had prejudices against him, was ready to start at first when any 
spake of fixing on him; yet as often as he preached, he came 
nearer and nearer to me. Spake this chiefly because all that 
Mr. Willard had said of Mr. Bradstreet, had been exceedingly 
undervaluing: and because Mr. Willard said no body had been 
with him to speak to him about Mr. Bradstreet but Mr. Stod- 
dard. Mr. Oliver said if Mr. Willard were so averse, had 
rather let it rest. Sometimes said were now ready for a new 
Meetinghouse. Some, Let us call Mr. Bailey. At last agreed 
to mention the matter to the church after the Afternoon Ex- 
ercise. Febr. 7. Mr. Willard recapitulats how long he had 
been our Pastor; near 20. years; and near 18. years alone, had 
to his measure served God faithfully, was desirous of Help, 
lay not in him, yet had none; if what he propounded more than 
a year ago had been attended, might have made for the Glory 
of God. Ask’d if now were ready to pitch on any; if were, 
then must have a Fast. None speake; at last Capt. Ephr. Sav- 
age desired might meet in sons dwelling house, many were 
there present which were not of us. Mr. Willard assented, 
and on Mr. Sergeants motion, apointed to meet at his house, 
15. Instt at 2 p.m. When at our house, some said Charles- 
town being before us, to call a Fast after they had call’d Mr. 
Bradstreet would be evil spoken of: the person of their desires 
being gon. Some said that Fasting now at Charlestown and 
here was but a Trick; not just so: but tending that way. Mr. 
Willard said Charlestown would be before us, do what we 
could; and if they call’d him ’twas not fit for us to meddle till 
he had given his Answer: som look’d at this as Artifice in the 
Ministers to prevent the South Church. For when Mr. Wil- 
lard propounded Mr. Pemberton by name, 1695, No Fast pre- 
ceded. If Mr. Willard had not so propounded, believe the 
thing had been issued at that time: but many look’d on it as an 
Imposition and tending to infringe their Liberty of choice. I 


142 SEWALL’S DIARY 


had been with Mr. Willard the day before, and told him 
some scruples that I was not just ready to act till had enquired 
further. 

Feb. 8. Mr. Bromfield and Eyre call me, and we visit Mr. 
H. Usher, who is now brought to Town about a week ago; 
Lay at Malden some time by reason of a fall from ’s horse last 
4» day five weeks. Febr. 9. I visit Mr. Willard: spake with 
him after he began, about our conference last 6 day, told him 
the reason of my speaking as I did; because had heard he should 
say, I fore’d the Church Meeting: whereas I intended not so; 
but as we had engaged silence, I told him my heart; as I said 
I always did when he confer’d with me and enquired of me in 
such cases. He said was sorry he propounded Mr. Pemberton 
as he did. Seem’d to resent my saying: That the Negative was 
a high point, and better not to talk of it then (which at the 
conference) term’d it a check, I think parted good friends. 
Much vilified Mr. Bradstreet; hardly allowed him any thing 
but a Memory, and the Greek Tongue, with a Little poesy. I 
said what shall Charlestown doe? Answer was, Let them do 
as they please. Mr. Willard is to assist on the Fast Day, which 
proves very cold, 4 day Feb. 10. 

Feb. 10. 4 day 169% Goodw. Duen putting on a Rugg 
and going into our house much scares the children; so that 
come running to me throw the old Hall, with a very amazing 
Cry. I was sawing wood; and much surpris’'d. Wife came 
and all. ‘The Lord save me and his people from astonishing, 
suddain, desolating Judgmts; pardon all my folly and pervert- 
ing my way, and help me to walk with a right foot. This was 
between 10 and 11. aclock. m. Deacon Maryon went from 
hence but a little before. 

March 27, 1697. About 10. at night Gov’ Bradstreet dyes; 
which we are told of March, 29% at Cambridge, where we 
were upon the account of Mrs. Danforth’s Funeral. Madam 
Leverett, Madam Cook, and my wife and I rode together in 
the Coach. 


SEWALL’S DIARY 143 


Sixth-day, Apr. 2. 1697. Lieut-Governour, Mr. Secretary, 
Col. Shrimpton, and Sewall ride to Salem. It rain’d most of 
the way, and yet, a little beyond the Butts, Col. Gedney met the 
Gov". with a small Troop; and in the Rain led us along 
through the Town to the Fort, to view it and see what condi- 
tion ’twas in; and also the Brest-Work: From thence went 
back to Col. Gedney’s. Governour, Mr. Secretary, Col. 
Phillips and Sewall dined there: From about two post merid- 
iem, the wether clear’d and was warm. About 3 was the 
Funeral; Bearers, Mr. Danforth, Major Gen. Winthrop, Mr. 
Cook, Col. Hutchinson, Sewall, Mr. Secretary: Col. Gedney 
and Major Brown led the Widow; I bore the Feet of the 
Corps into the Tomb, which is new, in the Old Burying place. 

April 29. 5 day is signalised by the Atchievment of Hanah 
Dustin, Mary Neff, and Samuel Lenerson; who, kill’d Two 
men [Indians], their Masters, and two women and 6. others, 
and have brought in Ten Scalps. 

May 1. 1697. The first Sheet of Phenomena Apocalyptica 
is wrought off. 34 day May 11. Elisabeth Sewall, and 
Joana Gerrish set sail for Newbury in Edward Poor, between 
10. and 11. a-clock, fair wind. Sent my Father a cheese and 
Barrel of Flower by him. Aunt Quinsey, and Cousin Edmund 
here. Fourth-day, May 12., very brisk Southerly wind; so 
that hope Betty is got well to Newbury. ‘This day wrought 
off the first half-sheet of the Phenomena; which I corrected 
my self. Hanah Dustan came to see us; I gave her part of 
Conecticut Flax. She saith her Master, whom she kill’d, did 
formerly live with Mr. Roulandson at Lancaster: He told 
her, that when he pray’d the English way, he thought that was 
good: but now he found the French way was better. The 
single man shewed the night before, to Sam’. Lenarson, how 
he used to knock Englishmen on the head and take off their 
Scalps; little thinking that the Captives would make some of 
their first experiment upon himself. Sam. Lenarson kill’d him. 


Fourth-day; Sept’. 8. 1697. The Governour and Council. 


144 SEWALL’S DIARY 


first meet in the Council-Chamber, as it is now fitted with ciel- 
ing, Glazing, Painting, new Floor that brings it to a Level; 
New Hearth even with it. Deputies sent for in; Lt Gover- 
nour made a Speech, that as they saw by the many Proroga- 
tions, He hoped my Lord should have now receiv’d them. I 
presented his Honour with the view of a half-sheet, which 
begins In quatuor angulis terra. Col. Pierce gave an account 
of the Body of Lime-Stone discover’d at Newbury, and the 
order of the Selectmen published by James Brown, Dept. 
Sheriff, to prohibit any persons from carrying any more away 
under the penalty of 20%. It seems they began to come with 
Teams by 30. in a day: The Town will have a Meeting, and 
bring it to some Regulation. Our Momford saith tis good 
Marble. Ens. James Noyes found it out. 

Sept’ 14. Went to Bristow over the Ferry, Bridge being 
down. Lodge at Mr. Wilkins; were met by sundry of Bris- 
tow Gentlemen. Issued our Business to good Satisfaction to 
our selves; Fourth-day was a storm, else might have husbanded 
it so as to have come to Rehoboth that night: But are glad of 
the Rain after so sore a Drought. 

Sept’ 16. fifth-day, Mr. Danforth and I and our men, set 
out to come home, Not one creature accompanying us to the 
Ferry. Had a very comfortable Journey No Dust moving. 
Visited Mr. Greenwood Din’d at Woodcocks with boil’d ven- 
ison. Discours’d with a Lin Quaker removing to Philadelphia, 
one Burrel; Advis’d him to read the 35% of Jeremiah: ‘The 
Contents in that Bible mentioned Pride, which he was guilty 
of. Go by Wrentham; visit Mr. Mann, who hath 11. chil- 
dren. From thence to Medfield, Lodge at Capt. Barbers, visit 
Mrs. Wilson in the even; give her 4 p* 8 [pieces of eight, 
Spanish dollars]. 

Sept’ 17. I view Mr. Baxters House and the Orchard Capt 
Frary hath given to the Ministry, which lies very convenient; 
A living Brook runing by it; and throw Mr Baxters. Visit 
Capt. Thurston, who was glad to see me. When at Dedham 


SEWALL’S DIARY 146 


visit Mr. Belchar; Mr. Whitman is there, are going to Con- 
necticut. Go home a little before one post meridiem. Is a 
Rumor at Rehoboth that Col. Gibson is gon into Canada. One 
Jamison brought on the news of our Armys Engagement. 
Blessed be God who hath carried us out and brought us home 
safely and that preserves so many of our Towns like Flocks of 
Sheep in a howling Wilderness, naked and defenceless. 

Sixth-day, Oct™ 1. 1697. Jer. Balchar’s sons came for us 
to go to the Island. My Wife, through Indisposition, could 
not goe: But I carried Sam. Hanah, Elisa, Joseph, Mary and 
Jane Tapan: I prevail’d with Mr. Willard to goe, He carried 
Simon, Elisabeth, William, Margaret, and Elisa Tyng: Had 
a very comfortable Passage thither and home again; though 
against Tide: Had first Butter, Honey, Curds and Cream. 
For Diner, very good Rost Lamb, Turkey, Fowls, Aplepy. 
After Diner sung the 121 Psalm. Note. A Glass of spirits 
my Wife sent stood upon a Joint-Stool which, Simon W. jog- 
ging, it fell down and broke all to shivers: I said twas a lively 
Emblem of our Fragility and Mortality. When came home 
met Capt Scottow led between two: He came to visit me and 
fell down and hurt himself; bruis’d his Nose, within a little of 
our House. 

Upon the fourth day of the Week Sept™ 29, 1697, A Coun- 
cil met at Plimouth: 

Sept’ 30. fifth day, They published their Advice, that Mr. 
Cotton should make an orderly secession from the Church. 
Advis’d the Church to dismiss him with as much Charity as 
the Rule would admit of; and provide for themselvs. This 
was for his Notorious Breaches of the Seventh Comandmt, and 
Undue Carriage in Chusing Elders. ‘Thus Christs words are 
fulfilled, Unsavoury Salt is cast to the Dunghill. A most aw- 
full Instance! 

Fifth-day, Nov’ 48 Guns fired with respect to the King’s 
Birth-day. At night great Illumination made in the Town. 
house; Governour and Council and many Gentlemen there. 


146 SEWALL’S DIARY 


About 8. Mr. Brattle and Newman let fly their Fireworks 
from Cotton-Hill; Governour and Council went thither with 
a Trumpet sounding. Note. Governour, Mr. Secretary and 
I went to see Mr. Morton; before these works began, Had 
the Epistle to his Honour, a proof of it, in my pocket: but had 
not oportunity to shew it: was taken this day. I went and 
visited Mr. Baily, who discoursed pretty cheerily. 

Fourth-day Nov’ 10%. L*t Governour and Council met at the 
Council Chamber, were warn’d by Maxwell the day before. I 
took that oportunity to present the Lt Governour with seven 
Phenomena! I said the Records and References were laid 
before his Hon™ as it were in open Court; and pray’d that his 
Honour would judge of the Cause according to its own Merits, 
and not according to the deficiency of the Attorney, who had 
fallen short as to the duely urging of many proper pleas. His 
Honour said it should be favourably Judged of. In the even- 
ing, not having a Thanksgiving sermon at hand, I resolv’d to 
read in course, not thinking what the Chapter might be, and 
it prov’d to be Luke, 1. I aplied Marys question to the busi- 
ness of the Natives; Though means fail’d, God could easily 
convert them: Sung the song of Zecharra and Simeon. 

In the morn. Nov? 12° Sung in course the 24 Ps., which 
was not aware of till my Son named it. Much Rain fell this 
day and night following; which was extreamly needed, for the 
Wells, for Cattell to drink, and for the Mills. 

Sixth-day, Nov’. 19. Mr. Higginson comes as far as 
Brothers to see me; which I wonder’d at. Mr. Hale and I 
lodg’d together: He discours’d me about writing a History of 
the Witchcraft; I fear lest he go into the other extream. Came 
home with the Maj’ General, din’d at Madam Paiges; there 
found Hancock, Allen, and Sam. Haugh. Found all well, 
Laus Deo. 

Jan’ 23, 169% Very Cold. Mr. Fitch preacheth with us 
and pronounceth the Blessing, Mr. Willard not being there, 
by reason of illness: “Text was, The Lord is my shepherd &c. 


SEWALL’S DIARY 147 


Mr. Willard comes abroad in the Afternoon, and preacheth 
excellently; baptiseth a child and a woman. Very thin As- 
semblies this Sabbath, and last; and great Coughing: very few 
women there. Mr. Willard pray’d for mitigation of the 
wether; and the south Wind begins to blow with some vigor. 
My clock stood still this morning, and yesterday morn, which 
has not done many years. 

Fourth-day, Febr. 9. Last night, about nine of the clock, 
Col. Shrimpton dyes of an Apoplexy. Capt. Ichabod Plaisted 
told me of it. He was seen at his door the last Sixth Day. I 
gave my Letters to Capt. Plaisted to carry to Newbury. Sec- 
ond-day, Febr. 14, 169% Col. Sam’. Shrimpton was buried 
with Arms; Ten Companies, 8, Muddy River and Sconce: No 
Horse nor ‘Trumpet: but a Horse led—Mr. Dyers, the 
Colonel’s, would not endure the cloathing: Mourning Coach 
also and Horses in Mourning: Scutcheon on their sides and 
Deaths heads on their foreheads: Coach stood by the way 
here and there and mov’d solitarily. Bearers Maj™ Gen! Win- 
throp, Mr. Cook, L*. Col. Hutchinson, Mr. Addington, Capt. 
Foster, Maj? Walley. Mr. E™ Hutchinson and Mr. Allen led 
the widow, Capt. Clark fired twelve great guns at the Sconce, 
began as march’d to the New-burying place where the Corps 
was set int [sic] to the two wives. Very fair and large Paths 
were shovel’d by great pains and cost, three in the Burying 
place, one direct to the Tomb, the other compassing by the 
sides in which the souldiers stood Drawn up. W™ Scovel being 
well and having on his new Coat, I fitted him with my Musket, 
Rapier, mourning, Amunition, and he serv’d in the South-Com- 
pany. 

Febr. 15. Remarkable Sun-dogs and a Rainbow were seen. 
Febr. 16. Mr. Chr. Tapan comes hether. Sam. reads the 2 
Habakkuk out of course at evening prayer; next morn reads 
the 90° Psalm in course. Secret sins in the light of thy coun- 
tenance, pained me. Feb. 19. I go over the Ice and visit Mr. 
Morton, who keeps his bed. 


148 SEW ATLAS Dw aR 


Second-day, March 7. Set out for Plimouth about 10. mane. 
Get to Barkers and lodge there. Maj’ General set out about 
Noon and came to us at Barkers in the night. 

March, 8. Get to Plimouth about Noon, Are entertain’d 
at Cole’s. Send two mile for Mr. Little, who prays at the 
opening of the Court: invite him to Diner: Speak not to Mr. 
Cotton. I lodge at Cole’s, the house was built by Gov’ Wins- 
low and is the oldest in Plimouth. March, 9. Word is 
brought us that our Horses are broke out of themselves, or 
else are taken out of the stable; viz. four, Maj* Generals, Mr. 
Cooks, mine, and Mingo’s Sent presently to their flat-house, 
but hear nothing of them. Court rises. Capt. Byfield goes 
home. Mr. Cook and I linger hoping to hear of our horses 
and trying to get more. Fifth-day, March 10. I walk out 
in the morn. to see the Mill, then turn up to the Graves, come 
down by the Meetinghouse, and seeing the door partly open, 
went in and found a very convenient Oportunity to pray, the 
wind being cold; for my self and family, for Plimouth, Bp 
Stoke, the Province, &c. Maj* General, Mr. Sherriffe, Mr. 
Ward, Master of a Connecticut Sloop, and I Dine together at 
Coles. I pay for Ward because invited him, and Maj? General 
for the Sheriffe. Had large discourse in the even with Mrs. 
Cotton, Mr. Cotton, Mr. Rowland. I told Mr. Coton, a free 
confession was the best way; spake of Davids roaring all the 
day long and bones waxing old whilest he kept silence. I spake 
with Deacon Fance today, sent for him to Mr. Cotton’s: It 
seems upon the 5th of October, The Church, by speaking one 
by one, declared their Mind was to Release Mr. Cotton from 
his office-bond as Pastor; sent to Mr. Cotton to meet them 
(they were at Shirtly’s, 25 in number, some that could not 
come sent their minds to the same effect: and New Society 
ready to do it). Mr. Cotton to come to the Meeting-house, 
thither they goe, and there Deacon Fance declares what the 
church had done. Mr. Cotton was at Cole’s: when ready 
to come away March, 11. I said his danger was lest catching at 


SEWALL’S DIARY 149 


shadows, he should neglect the cords thrown out to him by 
Christ and so be drown’d. Some of my last words to him 
was, Kisse the Son, lest he be angry! ‘This was in the house 
between him and me alone. Just as was mounting, He desired 
me to pray for him till I heard he was dead. 

As came along, went a little out of our way and came to 
Duxbury houses; so then resolv’d to visit Mr. Wiswall, who 
had been long sick of the Gout, and was very glad to see us. 
Gave us a very good Goose to Diner. It rained, and got but to 
Barkers that night. My horse flounder’d in a bank of Snow, 
and threw me off; but had no hurt: Laus Deo. Dine at 
Cushings, Get home a little before Sunset and find all well, 
blessed be God. 

Fourth-day, March 16. 169%. I sent to the college Library 
my Phenomena, well bound in calvs Leather, with Mr. 
Oakee’s election sermon, and Mr. Willard’s Tract about 
Swearing; by Josiah Cotton. 

Thorsday Apr. 7th. 1698. I acquainted Mr. Brenton that 
I had sold my 600. Acre Lot at Narraganset, as suposing he 
had no mind to hire it, but was cold in the matter, going away 
to Rode-Island and not perfecting the Lease, nor offering me 
any to sign, nor desiring me to stay till he should come back, 
that I remember. Bro St. Sewall visits us this day; lodges 
here Thorsday night and Friday night. 

Sixth-day, April 8. I visited Mr. Morton. I was told he 
was asleep, but went in, and when I drew nigh his Beds side, 
he earnestly streach’d out his flaming hand to me, and strove 
to speak, but could not. I think the first I heard him say was, 
Sir, I asked him how he did in such long illness. He at first 
said, That which can’t be cur’d must be endur’d. But seem’d 
presently after to correct himself and say, I desire patiently to 
submit to the hand of God. A while after I said, you canot 
speak to me, but you can speak to God, which is a thousand 
times better; I pray that God would help you to speak to him, 
and that he would graciously hear you when you doe speak. 


150 SEW ALD S <DLARY 


He seem’d to ly still in a listening posture, and made a little 
pause, and said, Excellent things! If I could receive them and 
live up to them! Before this He said something about his man 
Tiler, that he heard he was become a new man. When I took 
leave, He said, I wish you well and all your family. I told 
him I doubted not but that I should fare the better for his 
Blessing. Second-day, Apr. 11. Mr. Willard and I having 
apointed it before, went to see Mr. Morton. He was in his 
Agonies, but Mr. Willard pray’d with him, and he seemed to 
be sensible by the motion of his eye. He died between two 
and three of the clock. Fowl, that us’d to tend him, clos’d his 
eyes; and Mr. Willard spake to them to close his under Jaw, 
which they did. Deacons desired us to go and see Mr. Brad- 
street, which we did: but he was not at home, was gon to 
Cambridge. 

May, 10. Mr. John Brown has home his Bride to Salem, 
Mrs. Sarah Burroughs. Very cold blustering day after the 
pleasant warm Rain yesterday, and Rainbow near night, south 
E and by East. Fourth-day, May, 11. As I lay in my bed in 


the morn, this verse came into my mind, 


To Horses, Swine, Net-Cattell, Sheep and Deer, 
Ninety and Seven prov’d a Mortal year. 


Tuesday, June, 28. 1698. Court at Salem, Major Brown 
praesident; were removd to the Ship Tavern and candles 
lighted; a cry of Fire was made. A Girl drawing Rum in a 
litle Warehouse of Mr. Lyndon’s, or looking after a cask that 
leak’d, the candle fired it, which took the cask and broke it up 
with a Report, so catch’d Cotton and fired Mr. Willoughbys 
house in the Garret of which was a Barrel of Powder, that 
taking fire blew off the Roof and very much dispersed the flam- 
ing partickles; much of which was thrown on Major Brown’s 
house over the way, the wind carrying it thither so that and 
his warehouse were quickly burnt down, and much Money and 
Goods lost with the Buildings. Five houses in all burnt, Mr. 


SEWALL’S DIARY ISI 


Hirst’s for one. ‘This is the first considerable Fire that ever 
was in Salem. It seems the stroke makes a deep impression on 
Maj’ Brown. Has lost 3 or four Thousand pounds. 

July, 15. 1698. Mr. Edward Taylor comes to our house 
from Westfield. Monday July 18. I walk’d with Mr. Edward 
Taylor upon Cotton Hill, thence to Becon Hill, the Pasture, 
along the Stone-wall: As came back, we sat down on the great 
Rock, and Mr. Taylor told me his courting his first wife, and 
Mr. Fitch his story of Mr. Dod’s prayer to God to bring his 
Affection to close with a person pious, but hard-favoured. Has 
God answered me in finding out one Godly and fit for me, 
and shall I part for fancy? When came home, my wife gave 
me Mr. Tapan’s Letter concerning Eliza, which caus’d me to 
reflect on Mr. Taylor’s Discourse. And his Prayer was for 
pardon of error in our ways—which made me think whether 
it were not best to overlook all, and go on. “This day John 
Ive, fishing in great Spie-pond, is arrested with mortal sick- 
ness which renders him in a maner speechless and senseless; 
dies next day; buried at Charlestown on the Wednesday. Was 
a very debauched, atheistical man. I was not at his Funeral. 
Had Gloves sent me, but the knowledge of his notoriously 
wicked life made me sick of going; and Mr. Mather, the pres- 
ident, came in just as I was ready to step out, and so I staid 
at home, and by that means lost a Ring: but hope had no loss. 
Follow thou Me, was I supose more complied with, than if had 
left Mr. Mather’s company to go to such a Funeral. 

Seventh-day; Octob™ 29. 1698. ‘Thomas Savage jun’, shop- 
keeper, and Sarah Threeneedles were brought face to face in a 
very great Audience: She vehemently accused him, and he 
asserted his innocency with vehement Asservations. She said 
he had ruin’d her; if he would have promis’d her any thing, it 
had not come to this. Said She forgave him, Judgment of God 
hung over him if did not repent. 

Fifth-day, Nov’. 10. Mr. Green is ordained at Salem Vil- 
lage, and likelihood of a stability of Peace and settlement 


152 SEWALL’S DIARY 


there. Fifth-day, Nov’ 17. Very fair serene wether; Mr. 
Cotton Mather preaches at the South-Meetinghouse: Sarah 
‘Threeneedles is an Auditor; is a very vast Assembly, and the 
street full of such as could not get in; 51. Psalm 24 verse sung, 
9—15 verses. Mr. Willard read the whole, and I set the 
Tune. After Lecture Sarah Threeneedles is executed. Mr. 
Woodbridge went to the place of execution and pray’d with 
her there. 

Sabbath, December 4. 1698. Last night lying awake, but 
with my eyes fast shut, Lightening flash’d in my face, I could 
not certainly tell what Light it should be; but presently heard 
a loud clap of Thunder. ‘This day between the ringing of 
the morning Bells, it Thundered several times, but with a 
more confused and rumbling noise. Much Rain, Mist. 

Dec’ 24. 1698. Read and sung in course in the Family the 
34 part of the 77 Ps., which I hop’d was going to be partly 
fullfill’d by the company of Scotland. Dec" 29 After Lecture 
I invite Major Vaughan and Mr. Partridge to Dinner, such 
as it was. At the Town-House with Mr. Justice Danforth, 
Winthrop, Cooke, took the New Oath made last sessions. And 
took an oath relating to the Special Court to try Jacob Smith; 
Mr. Danforth gave the comission to Mr. Cook. Voted some 
Money for Major Walley. Went to Vaughan and Par- 
tridge at Dering’s, as told them I would, while in the chamber. 
Had only a piece of rost Beef, Minct pye and Tarts to Diner. 
It seems the Lt Gov" invites the Council to Diner to morrow 
at his house. After Diner, Major Winthrop, Mr. Cook, Col. 
Hutchinson, Capt. Foster, Mr. Sergeant, Mr. Hutchinson 
came in to discourse with Mr. Partridge and Vaughan, and 
staid till about 6 aclock, or past. Mr. Cook ask’d me whether 
I was bidden. I told him I knew nothing of it. Major Gen! 
looked upon me in good earnest, and almost angrily, at going 
away, and told me I must goe; but I heard nothing of it since, 
and tis now Dec™ 30th. past 3 tempore pomeridiano. 

The Grievousness of this proetermission is, that by this means 


SEWALL’S DIARY 153 


I shall be taken up into the lips of Talkers, and shall be obnox- 
ious to the Governour at his coming, as a person deserted and 
fit to be hunted down, if occasion be; and in the mean time, 
shall goe feebly up and down my Business, as one who is quite 
out of the L' Govr® favour. “The Lord pardon my share in the 
abounding of Iniquity by reason whereof the Love of many 
waxes cold. 

Friday, Jan’ 20. Capt. Brown and Turner breakfast here: 
Betty came in afterward, and serv’d Almonds and Raisins, and 
fill’d a Glass of Wine to us; and it fell to her to drink to Capt. 
Turner. She went out of the way at first, after I had spoke 
to her to fill wine: which surpris’d me: and I contrived that 
of the Raisins on purpose to mend the matter. Sabbath-day 
Jan¥ 22, Bro™ Roger Judd is cast out of the Church for his 
contumacy in refusing to hear the Church, and his contemptu- 
ous behaviour against the same, and Mr. Willard the Pastor. 
Refus’d to be there. 

Second-day, Jan’ 23. 16984 I carry my two sons and three 
daughters in the Coach to Danford, the Turks head at Dor- 
chester: eat sage Cheese, drunk Beer and Cider and came 
homeward. Call’d at Madam Dudley’s, then visited Mr. Wal- 
ter; told him there was all my stock, desired his Blessing of 
them; which he did. 

Wednesday, June 21. A Pack of Cards are found strawed 
over my fore-yard, which, tis suposed, some might throw there 
to mock me, in spite of what I did at the Exchange ‘Tavern 
last Satterday night. 

Third-Day, July, 11. 1699. I went with Mr. Willard to 
Pulling-Point to Mr. Dean Winthrop’s, (77) aforum. Be- 
tween one and two, Mr. Willard married Atherton Haugh 
and Mercy Winthrop: Said, Mr. Atherton Haugh, Mrs. 
Mercy Winthrop; forbad all unlawful comunion with other 
Women and vice versa. Gave very good Advice and Exhor- 
tation; especially most solemnly charged them never to neglect 
family Prayer. Between 3 and four Major Gen! and Mr. 


154 SEWALL’S DIARY 


Adam Winthrop came and many with them, when we had 
almost din’d. Sang a Psalm together, I set St. David’s Tune: 
Sung part of two Psalms, concluded with the 4 last verses of 
the 115. 

When Mr. Willard ask’d Mr. Winthrop’s consent, he also 
complemented me respecting Atherton Haugh: I said I was 
glad that had found so good a Family and so good a wife. And 
after, when saw the Bridegroom and Bride together after the 
Wedding: I praid God to bless them, and give them such an 
Offspring wherein the Name of Haugh and Winthrop might 
flourish. 

Mr. Dean Winthrop liv’d there in his fathers days, and was 
wont to set up a Bush when he saw a ship coming in; He is 
now 77 years old. In his Fathers time, his house stood more 
toward Dear Island. Wind was against us coming home; so 
that twas nine aclock before landed. Were four hours in the 
passage. Maj’ Gen! &c bid there all night, and pass’d it but 
uncomfortably. 

Oct’ 27. Lt Gov’ Treats the Governour and his Lady and 
many more: Iwo tables. Capt. Crow breaks a Glass Bottle 
of Madera as it stood on the floor, so that it run about with its 
Sanguin Colour; Capt. Crow mention’d its not being able to be 
gathered up again. Mr. Danforth crav’d a Blessing; Mr. 
Bridge return’d Thanks. Before Diner rid with the Gover- 
nour to the end of Dorchester Neck. This day news comes to 
Town of Mr. Man’s House being burnt last night. Capt. 
Foxcroft informs us at Dorchester of his Father Danforth’s 
Sickness. Mr. Hirst and Sam. come home from Braintry 
where they lay the night before. 

Seventh-day, Nov™ 11 about the middle of the night fol- 
lowing, my dear Sister Hanah Tappan dies of a Fever. Mr. 
Addington told me of it first upon Nov? 13 in the Council- 
Chamber, from Mr. Gerrish of Wenham. At 7, at night I 
received a Letter from Bro™ Sewall of it, and that the Funeral 
is to be the 14. Our notice is so lame and late, that I per- 


SEWALL’S DIARY oe 


suade Jane to stay at home, it being almost impossible to get 
thither time enough. Besides all this, the Court at Salem 
keeps me there, and Bro™ Sewall also. We had liv’d eight of 
us together Thirty years; and were wont to speak of it (it may 
be too vainly). But now God begins to part us apace. “wo 
are taken away in about a quarter of a year’s time; And me 
thinks now my dear Bro’ and Sister are laid in the Grave, I 
am, as it were laid there in Proxy—The Lord help me to carry 
it more suitably, more fruitfully, toward the Five remaining; 
and put me in a preparedness for my own Dissolution. And 
help me to live upon Him alone. 

Fifth-day, Nov’ the last. 1699. The Rain freezes upon the 
branches of the Trees to that thickness and weight, that great 
havock is thereby made of the Wood and Timber. Many 
young and strong Trees are broken off in the midst; and mul- 
titudes of Boughs rent off. Considerable hurt is done in 
Orchards. Two of our Apple-trees are broken down, Unkles 
Tree, two thirds of it, are broken down. Peach Trees at Mrs. 
Moodeys are almost all spoil’d. And my little Cedar almost 
quite mortified. Some think the Spoil that is made amounts 
to Thousands of pounds. How suddenly and with surprise can 
God destroy! 

Tuesday, Febr. 6, 1699-1700. A Council is held at my 
Lord’s. ‘The Advice of Councillors asked about sending the 
Pirats on Board. I motioned that by that time the Prisoners 
could be got from N. York, Conecticut, Rode-Island: the 
Assembly might sit if his L‘ship saw meet, and they would 
willingly rid themselves of them. Gov" seem’d displeas’d. I 
had ask’d before, What Pirats, and the Gov" said them and 
their Associates. Gov" mention’d Kid, Gillam, Bradish, With- 
erly, to be sent aboard presently for better security. Council 
voted to leave it to the Govrs. Discretion whom to send aboard: 
only the Gov' had said to some that enquired, He intended not 
[to let] them out upon Bail. I think only I, Col. Townsend 
and Capt. Byfield were in the Negative. I said I was not clear 


156 SEWALL’S DIARY 


in it. The grounds I went upon were because I knew of no 
power I had to send Men out of the Province. Capt. Byfield 
_ said, He was for their going aboard: but reckon’d twas not so 
safe to send them presently as to keep them in Goal. Voted 
also the Treasure to be deliver’d to such as the Goy’ should 
apoint. 

Friday, Febr. 9th. Will, formerly Capt. Prentices Negro, 
now living with Maylem, a Horse run away with him, threw 
him upon the hard frozen Ground, or Timber, near Houchins’s 
corner, and kill’d him; died in a little while. I saw him pant- 
ing as came from visiting Capt. Foxcroft. He was much de- 
lighted in Horses, and now dies by a Horse. About 1664. he 
sav'd his Master Prentice from a Bear. Went with Col. 
‘Townsend and me to Albany. Rid Post one while. 

Capt. Belchar was at the Meeting, come home from burying 
his daughter Vaughan, who died in child bed. Child died first. 
Wast the most beautifull of all his Daughters. I wonder’d to 
see him at Mr. Bromfield’s, the wether had been so excessive 
cold. Said, I was sorry for the croping of his desirable Flower. 

Febr. 22. I had thoughts of sitting up to see the eclipse: 
but the cloudy thick sky discouraged me: yet kept a candle 
burning, and went to the Window at two of the clock; the 
wether was still thick with clouds, that I could see nothing: 
only seem’d very dark for a full Moon. 

In the evening I visited Mrs. Williams in her Languishing. 
Am invited to a Fast there on Friday. 

Wednesday, Febr. 28. We ship off the Iron chest of Gold, 
Pearls &c., 40 Bails of East-India Goods, 13 hogsheads, chests 
and case, one Negro Man, and Venturo Resail, an East-In- 
dian born at Ceilon. Wether was doubtfull in the morning, 
which made us irresolute: but at last we set about it, and ac- 
complish’d it very hapily. I look upon it as a great Mercy of 
God, that the Storehouse has not been broken up, no fire has 
hapend. Agreed in the Weight of the Gold with our former 
Weight, and had so comfortable a day at last to finish our 


SEWALL’S DIARY Toy 


work. Mr. Bradstreet, and Capt. Winn’s Clerk took an ac- 
count at the Crane; but Capt. Winn would not give a Rect 
till had them on board the sloop Antonio, which ridd off just 
without the Outward Wharf. Gave a Rect for the Gold at 
Capt Belchar’s as soon as it was weighed. 

Tuesday, March 26. ‘The wind is very bleak that it was 
ready to put me into an Ague, having rid late the night before. 
Had a noble Treat at Maj Thomas’s. Mr. Sheriff and his 
Gentlemen were so wearied that they were afraid of some Mis- 
carriage at the Ferry. Began the Court about five. Wednes- 
day and Thorsday were extravagantly stormy. On Friday Mr. 
Cooke comes home but the wind was strong in my face, and 
cold that I durst not venture. Satterday was also very cold 
and chose rather to keep the Sabbath at Plimouth than by the 
way. Staid at Plimouth. At Noon was a Contribution for one 
that had his house burnt. Mr. Little invited me to. sup with 
him, which I did. 

Monday, April, 1. I was in a great quandary whether I 
had best to avoid the wind, come home by water and leave my 
Horse, or no. At last I went on board Elisha Hedge’s decked 
sloop laden with Oyle. He put in there in the storm from 
Yarmouth and lay till now for a wind. Came aboard about 
2 hours by Sun, and landed at Mrs. Butlers Wharf before 3 
p.m. Having had a very speedy and pleasant Passage, wherein 
I have experienced much of God’s parental pity towards me, 
and care over me. I could not have got home to day by Land: 
and I fear my health would have been much impair’d, if I had 
come but part of the way. Jonathan Wheeler ridd in the Rain 
from Milton. I have now kept one Sabbath with those who 
first kept Sabbaths in New England. 

May, 17%. Benj Moss jun™ is sent to me to acquaint me 
that my dear Father died the evening before. It rains hard. 
Holds up about 5 p.m. I ride to Hampton, lodge at Mr. Cot: 
tons, where am very kindly entertained. 

May 24 set out for Salem about an hour by sun, Mr 


158 SEWALL’S DIARY 


Joseph Woodbridge with me, Got to Brothers a little before 
Nine, met there Mrs. Ane Woodbridge. Proved my Fathers 
Will. May 25. 1700 went homeward in company Mrs. Anne 
as far as Col. Paiges. Got home about 3 aclock, found all well, 
Blessed be God. My Wife provided Mourning upon my 
Letter by Severs, All went in mourning save Joseph, who staid 
at home because his Mother lik’d not his cloaths. Sister Short 
here, came from Newbury the morn father died, and so miss’d 
being at the funeral. It seems about a 14night before, upon 
discourse of going to Meeting, my Father said, He could not 
goe, but hop’d to go shortly to a Greater Assembly. The Lord 
pardon all my sin of omission and commission towards him, 
and help me to prepare to Dye. Accept of any little Labour of 
Love towards my dear Parents. I had just sent four pounds 
of Raisins, which with the Canary were very refreshing to him. 

Fourth-day, June, 19. 1700. Mr. Jn° Eyre is entomed in 
the new burying place. Nine of his children are laid there to 
handsel the new Tomb: Bearers, Sewall, Addington, ‘Town- 
send, Byfield, Dumer, Davis: Scarvs and Rings. Lt Gov" and 
many of the Council there. Mr. Thomas Brattle led his 
mourning widowed Sister. When I parted, I pray’d God to 
be favourably present with her, and comfort her in the absence 
of so near and dear a Relation. Having been long and much 
dissatisfied with the Trade of fetching Negros from Guinea; 
at last I had a strong Inclination to Write something about it; 
but it wore off. At last reading Bayne, Ephes. about servants, 
who mentions Blackamoors; I began to be uneasy that I had 
so long neglected doing any thing. When I was thus thinking, 
in came Bro’ Belknap to shew me a Petition he intended to 
present to the Gen! Court for the freeing a Negro and his wife, 
who were unjustly held in Bondage. And there is a Motion 
by a Boston Committee to get a Law that all Importers of 
Negros shall pay 408 p head, to discourage the bringing of 
them. And Mr. C. Mather resolves to publish a sheet to 
exhort Masters to labour their Conversion. Which makes me 


SEWALL’S DIARY 159 


hope that I was call’d of God to Write this Apology for them; 
Let his Blessing accompany the same. 

Thorsday Sept’ 26" 1700. Mr. John Wait and Eunice his 
wife, and Mrs. Debora Thair come to Speak to me about the 
Marriage of Sebastian, Negro serv‘ of said Wait, with Jane, 
Negro servant of said Thair. Mr. Wait desired they might be 
published in order to marriage. Mrs. Thair insisted that Se- 
bastian might have one day in six allow’d him for the suport 
of Jane, his intended wife and her children, if it should please 
God to give her any. Mr. Wait now wholly declin’d that, 
but freely offer’d to allow Bastian Five pounds, in Money p 
afium towards the suport of his children p said Jane (besides 
Sebastians cloathing and Diet). I persuaded Jane and Mrs. 
Thair to agree to it, and so it was concluded; and Mrs. hair 
gave up the Note of Publication to Mr. Wait for him to 
carry it to W™ Griggs, the Town Clerk, and to Williams in 
order to have them published according to Law. 

Oct™ 17 1700. Mr. Grove Hirst and Elizabeth Sewall are 
married by Mr. Cotton Mather. Present, I and my wife, Mr. 
Hirst and his wife, Bro™ St. Sewall of Salem and his son Sam, 
Brothers and Sisters of Bridegroom and Bride. Madam Usher, 
Capt. Ephra Savage, Capt. Dumar and wife, Capt. Ballentine, 
Mrs. Mary Clark, Esther Wyllye, Margaret Stewart &c. 
Sung the 128. Psal. I set York Tune, not intending it. In the 
New Parlor. 

Jan’. 14%, Having been certified last night about 10. oclock 
of the death of my dear Mother at Newbury, Sam. and I set 
out with John Sewall, the Messenger, for that place. Hired 
Horses at Charlestown: set out about 10. aclock in a great 
Fogg. Din’d at Lewis’s with Mr. Cushing of Salisbury. Sam. 
and I kept on in Ipswich Rode, John went to accompany Bro 
from Salem. About Mr. Hubbard’s in Ipswich farms, they 
overtook us. Sam. and I lodg’d at Cromptons in Ipswich. 
Bro* and John stood on for Newbury by Moon-shine. Jan’ 


160 SRW iA LD GS sD vuRTy 


15% Sam. and I set forward. Brother Northend meets us. 
Visit Aunt Northend, Mr. Payson. With Bro® and sister we 
set forward for Newbury: where we find that day apointed for 
the Funeral: twas a very pleasant Comfortable day. 

Bearers, Jn° Kent of the Island, L' Cuting Noyes, Deacon 
William Noyes, Mr. Peter Tappan, Capt. Henry Somersby, 
Mr. Joseph Woodbridge. I follow’d the Bier single. Then Bro* 
Sewall and sister Jane, Bro™ Short and his wife, Bro™ Moodey 
and his wife, Bro™ Northend and his wife, Bro™ Tapan and 
sister Sewall, Sam. and cous. Hanah Tapan. Mr. Payson of 
Rowley, Mr. Clark, Minister of Excester, were there. Col. 
Pierce, Major Noyes &c. Cous. John, Richard and Betty Du- 
mer. Went abt 4. p.m. Nathan! Bricket taking in hand to fill 
the Grave, I said, Forbear a little, and suffer me to say That 
amidst our bereaving sorrows We have the Comfort of behold- 
ing this Saint put into the rightfull possession of that Happi- 
ness of Living desir’d and dying Lamented. She liv’d com- 
endably Four and Fifty years with her dear Husband, and my 
dear Father: And she could not well brook the being divided 
from him at her death; which is the cause of our taking leave 
of her in this place. She was a true and constant Lover of 
Gods Word, Worship, and Saints: And she always, with a 
patient cheerfullness, submitted to the divine Decree of pro- 
viding Bread for her self and others in the sweat of her Brows. 
And now her infinitely Gracious and Bountiful Master has 
promoted her to the Honor of higher Employments, fully and 
absolutely discharged from all maner of Toil, and Sweat. My 
honoured and beloved Friends and Neighbours! My dear 
Mother never thought much of doing the most frequent and 
homely offices of Love for me; and lavish’d away many Thou- 
sands of Words upon me, before I could return one word in 
Answer: And therefore I ask and hope that none will be of- 
fended that I have now ventured to speak one word in her 
behalf; when shee her self is become speechless. Made a Mo- 
tion with my hand for the filling of the Grave. Note, I could 


SE WALL SUDLARY 161 


hardly speak for passion and Tears. Mr. Tappan pray’d with 
us in the evening. I lodg’d at sister Gerrishes with Joseph. 
Bro? and Sam. at Br. Tapans. Jan’. 16°. The two Brothers 
and four sisters being together, we took Leave by singing of 
the 90 Psalm, from the 8 to the 15*® verse inclusively. Mr. 
Brown, the Scholar, was present. Set out abt 11. for Ipswich, 
got time enough to hear Mr. Rogers preach the Lecture from 
Luke 1. 76. about ministerial preparation for Christ. Sung 
the nine first verses of the 132. Psalm. Mr. Rogers prai’d for 
the prisoner of death, the Newbury woman who was there in 
her chains. ‘This is the last Sermon preached in the old Meet- 
ing-house. Eat Roost Fowl at Crompton’s. Delivered a Let- 
ter to the Widow Hale; got very comfortably over the Ferry 
to Brothers, whether Mr. Hirst quickly came to welcome us 
and invite us to dine or breakfast next day, which we did, the 
morning being cold: Visited Madam Bradstreet and Major 
Brown, and told them of the death of their fellow-passenger. 
Rec’d me very courteously. ‘Took horse about one p.m. Baited 
at Lewis’s; Stop’d at Govr Usher’s to pay him a visit. He and 
his Lady being from home, we pass’d on, and got to Charles- 
town about Sun-set, very comfortably. Found all well at 
home through the Goodness of God. 

Monday, June. 2—1701. Mr. Pemberton preaches the 
Artillery Sermon, from Luke. 3—14. Dine at Monk’s. Be- 
cause of the Rain and Mist, this day, the election is made upon 
the Town-house, Sewall, Capt.; Tho. Hutchinson Lieut.; Tho. 
Savage Jun’, Ensign.; Tho. Fitch, 1 Sergt.: Oliver Noyes 2: 
Hab. Savage 3: Charles Chauncey 4. Call’d down the Council 
out of the Chamber, set their chairs below; Col. Pynchon gave 
the Staves and Ensign. I said was surpris’d to see they had 
mistaken a sorry pruning Hook for a Military Spear; but paid 
such a deference to the Company that would rather run the 
venture of exposing my own inability, than give any occasion 
to suspect I slighted their call. 

Tuesday, June, 10%. Having last night heard that Josiah 


162 SEWALL’S DIARY 


Willard had cut off his hair (a very full head of hair) and 
put on a Wigg, I went to him this morning. Told his Mother 
what I came about, and she call’d him. I enquired of him 
what Extremity had forced him to put off his own hair, and 
put on a Wigg? He answered, none at all. But said that his 
Hair was straight, and that it parted behinde. Seem’d to 
argue that men might as well shave their hair off their head, 
as off their face. I answered men were men before they had 
hair on their faces, (half of mankind have never any). God 
seems to have ordain’d our Hair as a Test, to see whether we 
can bring our minds to be content to be at his finding: or 
whether we would be our own Carvers, Lords, and come no 
more at Him. If disliked our Skin, or Nails; ’tis no Thanks 
to us, that for all that, we cut them not off: Pain and danger 
restrain us. Your Calling is to teach men self Denial. ‘Twill 
be displeasing and burdensom to good men: And they that 
tare not what men think of them care not what God thinks 
of them. Father, Bro™ Simon, Mr. Pemberton, Mr. Wiggles- 
worth, Oakes, Noyes (Oliver), Brattle of Cambridge their 
example. Allow me to be so far a Censor Morum for this end 
of the Town. Pray’d him to read the Tenth Chapter of the 
‘Third book of Calvins Institutions. I read it this morning in 
course, not of choice. “Told him that it was condemn’d by a 
Meeting of Ministers at Northampton in Mr. Stoddards house, 
when the said Josiah was there. Told him of the Solemnity 
of the Covenant which he and I had lately enterd into, which 
put me upon discoursing to him. He seem’d to say would 
leave off his Wigg when his hair was grown. I spake to his 
Father of it a day or two after: He thank’d me that had dis- 
coursed his Son, and told me that when his hair was grown to 
cover his ears, he promis’d to leave off his Wigg. If he had 
known of it, would have forbidden him. His Mother heard 
him talk of it; but was afraid positively to forbid him; lest he 
should do it, and so be more faulty. 


July, 15. Funeral-day of Lt. Gov’. To Ipswich; Try 


SEWALL’S DIARY 163 


Esther Rogers. Jury next morn ask’d advice, then after, 
brought her in Guilty of murdering her Bastard daughter. 
July, 17. Mr. Cooke pronounc’d the sentence. She hardly 
said a word. I told her God had put two Children to her to 
nurse: Her Mother did not serve her so. Esther was a great 
saviour; she, a great destroyer. Said did not do this to insult 
over her, but to make her sensible. 

Monday, Oct? 6. 1701. Very pleasant fair Wether; Ar- 
tillery trains in the Afternoon [Sewall in command]. March 
with the Company to the Elms; Go to prayer, March down 
and Shoot at a Mark. Mr. Cushing I think was the first that 
hit it, Mr. Gerrish twice, Mr. Fitch, Chauncy, and the En- 
sign of the Officers. By far the most missed, as I did for the 
first. Were much contented with the exercise. Led them to 
the Trees agen, perform’d some facings and Doublings. Drew 
them together; propounded the question about the Colours; 
twas voted very freely and fully. I inform’d the Company I 
was told the Company’s Halberds &c. were borrowed; I under- 
stood the Leading staff was so, and therefore ask’d their Ac- 
ceptance of a Half-Pike, which they very kindly did; I deliv- 
er’d it to Mr. Gibbs for their Use. 

They would needs give me a Volley, in token of their Re- 
spect on this occasion. The Pike will, I supose, stand me in 
fourty shillings, being headed and shod with Silver: Has this 
Motto fairly engraven: 


Agmen Massachusettense 
est in tutelam Sponse 
AGNI Uxoris. 
1701. 


Oct? 20. Mr. Cotton Mather came to Mr. Wilkins’s shop, 
and there talked very sharply against me as if I had used his 
father worse than a Neger; spake so loud that people in the 


164 SEWALL’S DIARY 


street might hear him. Then went and told Sam, That one 
pleaded much for Negroes, and he had used his father worse 
than a Negro, and told him that was his Father. I had read in 
the morn Mr. Dod’s saying; Sanctified Afflictions are good 
Promotions. I found it now a cordial. And this caus’d me 
the rather to set under my Father and Mother’s Epitaph,— 
Psa ee rua, 

Oct’ 9. I sent Mr. Increase Mather a Hanch of very good 
Venison; I hope in that I did not treat him as a Negro. 

Octob? 22. 1701. I, with Major Walley and Capt. Sam! 
Checkly, speak with Mr. Cotton Mather at Mr. Wilkins’s. 
I expostulated with him from 1 Tim. 5.1. Rebuke not an 
elder. He said he had consider’d that: I told him of his book 
of the Law of Kindness for the Tongue, whether this were 
correspondent with that. Whether correspondent with 
Christ’s Rule: He said, having spoken to me before there was 
no need to speak to me again; and so justified his reviling me 
behind my back. Charg’d the Council with Lying, Hypocrisy, 
Tricks, and I know not what all. I ask’d him if it were done 
with that Meekness as it should; answer’d, yes. Charg’d the 
‘Council in general, and then shew’d my share, which was my 
speech in Council; viz. If Mr. Mather should goe to Cam- 
bridge again to reside there with a Resolution not to read the 
Scriptures, and expound in the Hall: I fear the example of it 
will do more hurt than his going thither will doe good. ‘This 
speech I owned. Said Mr. Corwin at Reading, upbraided 
him, saying, This is the man you dedicat your books to! I 
ask’d him If I should supose he had done somthing amiss in his 
Church as an Officer; whether it would be well for me to ex- 
claim against him in the street for it. (Mr. Wilkin would 
fain have had him gon into the iner room, but he would not.) 
I told him I conceiv’d he had done much unbecoming a Min- 
ister of the Gospel, and being call’d by Maxwell to the Coun- 
cil, Major Wally and I went thither, leaving Capt. Checkly 
there. 2 Tim. 2. 24. 25. Went to the Council, Sign’d Mr. 


SEWALL’S DIARY 165 


Mather’s order for £25. Hamer’d out an Order for a Day of 
Thanksgiving. 

Thorsday, Oct™ 23. Mr. Increase Mather said at Mr. Wil- 
kins’s, If I am a Servant of Jesus Christ, some great Judgment 
will fall on Capt. Sewall, or his family. 

Oct" 24. Rainy Day, yet Judge Atwood comes from Reho- 
both to Boston. 25. Visits several, and me among the rest. 
This day in the morn. I got Mr. Moody to copy out my 
Speech, and gave it to Mr. Wilkins that all might see what was 
the ground of Mr. Mather’s Anger. 

Writ out another and gave it to Joshua Gee. I perceive 
Mr. Wilkins carried his to Mr. Mathers; They seem to grow 
calm. 

Sabbath, Nov’. 30. Pray’d, sung— Contribution. Gave 
the Blessing. I spent this Sabbath at Mr. Colman’s, partly out 
of dislike to Mr. Josiah Willard’s cutting off his Hair, and 
wearing a Wigg. 

Jan’. 2. 17014. My Wife had some thoughts the Time of 
her Travail might be come, before she went to bed: But it 
went over. Between 4 and 5m. I goto prayer, Rise, make a 
Fire, call Mrs. Ellis, Hawkins, Mary Hawkins calls Midwife 
Greenlef. I go to Mr. Willard and desire him to call God. 
The Women call me into chamber, and I pray there. Jn° 
Barnard comes to me for Money: I desire him to acquaint 
Mr. Cotton Mather, and Father. 

Jan’. 2. 17014. My Wife is well brought to Bed of a 
Daughter just about two p.m., a very cold day: Was got into 
Bed without a fainting Fit. 

Sabbath-day night my wife is very ill and something Bess: 
Pulse swift and high. I call Mr. Oakes about Two aclock or 
before. Grows a little better. 

Jan’. 6. 170% Nurse Hill watch’d last night. Wife had 
a comfortable night. 

What through my wives many II|Inesses, more than ordinary, 
her fall upon the stairs about 5 weeks before; from which time 


166 SEWALL’S: DIARY 


she kept her chamber; her thoughtfullness between whiles 
whether she were with child or no; her Fears what the issue 
would be, and the misgiving of our Unbelieving hearts, GOD 
hath been wonderfully Mercifull to us in her comfortable De- 
livery; which I desire to have Recorded. 

Note. This is the Thirteenth Child that I have offered up 
to God in Baptisme; my wife having born me Seven Sons and 
Seven Daughters. I have named this little Daughter Judith, 
in Remembrance of her honoured and beloved Grandmother 
Mrs. Judith Hull. And it may be my dear wife may now 
leave off bearing. 

Thorsday, Febr. 19. Mr. I. Mather preached from Rev. 
22. 16—bright and morning Star. Mention’d Sign in the 
Heaven, and in the Evening following I saw a large Cometi- 
cal Blaze, something fine and dim, pointing from the West- 
ward, a little below Orion. 

Febr. 21. Capt. Tim®. Clark tells me that a Line drawa 
to the Comet strikes just upon Mexico, spake of a Revolution 
there, how great a Thing it would be. Said one Whitehead 
told him of the magnificence of the City, that there were in it 
, 1500 Coaches drawn with Mules. This Blaze had much put 
me in mind of Mexico; because we must look toward Mexico 
to view it. Capt. Clark drew a Line on his Globe. Our 
Thoughts being thus confer’d, and found to jump, makes it to 
me remarkable. I have long pray’d for Mexico, and of late 
in those Words, that God would open the Mexican Fountain. 

June 10. 1702. Comittee Tryes Powder, and firing so much 
and long distempered me; that partly by that, and partly by 
my Wives intolerable pains, I had a most restless night. June, 
11. Thorsday, before I was dress’d, Sam. Gave the Word that 
Gov' [Joseph Dudley] was come. Quickly after I got down, 
Maxwell sumoned me to Council, told me the Secretary had a 
Letter of the Governours Arrival yesterday, at Marblehead. 
Mr. Addington, Eliakim Hutchinson, Byfield and Sewall, sent 
per the Council, go with Capt Crofts in his Pinace to meet the 


SEWALL’S DIARY 167 


Governour, and Congratulat his Arrival; We get aboard a 
little before got within Point Alderton; Capt Heron intro- 
duced us; After had all saluted the Gov". I said, 

Her Majesty’s Council of this Province have comanded us 
to meet your Excellency, and congratulate your safe Arrival in 
the Massachusetts Bay, in quality of our Governour: Which 
we do very heartily; not only out of Obedience to our Masters 
who sent us; but also of our own accord. The Cloaths your 
Excellency sees us wear, are a true Indication of our inward 
Grief for the Departure of K. William. Yet we desire to re- 
member with Thankfullness the Goodness of God, who has at 
this time peacably placed Queen Anne upon the Throne. And 
as Her Majestys Name imports Grace, so we trust God will 
shew Her Majesty Favour; and Her Majesty us. And we 
look upon your Excellency’s being sent to us, as a very fair 
First-Fruit of it, for which we bless God and Queen Anne. 

June 12. as Governour came to Town, he alighted and 
call’d at my House, Thank’d me for my Kindness to his family. 
I was much indispos’d by my Throat being sore, and I feverish. 

Satterday, Augt. 15. p.m. Gov" brings home Sam., then 
takes me into the Calash to the Townhouse. Col. Hathorne 
and Townsend chosen: Gov" delivers him his Comission, then 
me and Maj* Walley. Said would never insert himself any 
way to influence any proceeding before; which has many times 
done with great Vehemency; exhorting us to doe Justice. Ad- 
dington, Hathorne, Sewall, Walley sent for Mr. Elisha Cooke 
jun": constituted him our Clerk, and gave him the Oaths. So 
now the Superior Court and Inferior Court Suffolk are both 
open’d this day; which is a considerable celebration of my son 
Joseph’s Birth-day. The Lord cause his face to shine on us! 

7° 11%, Went to Billinges in the Cart-way; Had a very 
good Diner, Venison &c. Got home in good time. Capt. Wil- 
liams with his Red-Coats met us betwen Dedham and the 
Turning to Fowl-Meadow. Capt. Belchar and sundry Bos- 
ton Gentlemen met us at Dedham. Note. Wednesday, at Os 


168 SEWALL YS DIARY 


burn’s, about Break-a-day, I heard one riding as I lay awake. 
(Mrs. Sparhawk having miscarried, I lodg’d there.) ‘Thought 
I, I fear there may be some bad News from Boston. ‘The man 
knock’d, and when he could make any hear, he ask’d if Capt. 
were there: I took it he said me. They answer’d yes. He 
said must come away presently: for his daughter was very bad. 
Then I said to my self, I must undertake a sorrowful Journey, 
as from Salem to Boston, upon the advice of my Still-born son: 
But God dismiss’d me from the burden of that sorrowfull Sur- 
prise, having laid it on Capt Brown of Swansey. We saw the 
Funeral as went over the Ferry on Thorsday. 

Monday, Oct" 26. 1702. Waited on the Gov" to Wooburn, 
dined there: From thence to Billericay, Visited languishing 
Mr. Sam! Whiting, I gave him 2 Balls of Chockalett and a 
pound Figgs, which very kindly accepted. Saw the Company 
in Arms led by Capt. Tomson. Went to Chelmsford, by that 
time got there twas almost dark. Saw Capt. Bowles and his 
Company; Gave a Volley and Huzza’s. Sup’d at Mr. Clark’s; 
I and Col. Pierce in his study. Some went on to Dunstable by 
Moonshine. Oct™ 27. Went to Dunstable in the Rain, Din’d 
and lodg’d at Col. Tyng’s. Saw and drunk of Merrimack. 
No Indians come in. Oct’. 28. Went to Groton, saw Capt. 
Prescot and his company in Arms. (Gov' had sent to them 
from Dunstable that would visit them). Lancaster is about 
12 Miles Southward from Groton. Concord is 16 Miles 34 
and Ten-Rod from Groton. Got thither about 2. Horses and 
Men almost tired by our very hard riding. Dine at Capt. 
Prescot’s. Lodge at Mr. Estabrooks with Col. Foxcroft. Their 
Foot Company, and Troop, in Arms, Seem’d to be numerous 
and well apointed. 

Oct’ 29. Breakfast at Capt. Minott’s, Set out for Cam- 
bridge. In Company Col. Pierce, Thomas, Partrigge, Fox- 
croft, Capt. Cutler, son Sewall, young Mr. Tyng. At Mr. 
Hancocks Mr. Secretary, Leverett met us. Mr. Dyer, Col. 
Byfield; at Russel’s Mr. Dudley. There the Calash met the 





SEWALL’S DIARY 169 


Gov’. and weary Major Brenton rid in it with the Gov’. to the 
Town: Col. Hobbey rid his Horse. Dined with the Gov" at 
Mr. Leveretts, Madam Leverett the Grandmother. Went 
home with Col. Hutchinson, Walley, Foster. Col. Foster in- 
vited us to drink at his house. Found all well, and David Sin- 
clair rocking Judith; he came to our house after I was gon my 
Journey. 

Nov? 10. Mr. Leverett comes from Cambridge; open the 
Court in the Meetinghouse, because the Townhouse is very 
near a house that has the Small Pocks; so that people are afraid 
to goe there; and Sharp is not willing to let us have his cham- 
ber. Sat in the Deacon’s seat, Col. Hathorne on my Right 
Hand, and Mr. Leverett on my Left. After the Reading of 
the Queen’s Proclamation, I spake to the Grand-Jury, having 
written it down before hand in my Daughters chamber. 

Nov? 30. Rid to Salem to visit my Daughter Hirst, who 
was brought to bed of a dead child Nov’ 28. 

From Lewis’s in company of Mr. Lyde. Got thither about 
2 hours by Sun. Daughter very glad to see me. xr. 1. My 
Daughter being threatened with the headache, I send Chap- 
man to Cambridge to Dr. Oliver for a Plaister: He follow’d 
the Dr. to Boston, and brought word of Mrs. Mathers death. 
Laid on a Plaister; Daughter grows better: but then again had 
an ill turn; yet grew fine and well agen by Satterday and cheer- 
fully dismiss’d me. Had a very comfortable Journey home. 
Son Hirst brought me going to the Butts. At Lewis’s fell in 
with Maj? Epes, Major Wainright and Mr. Fitch, going to 
Ipswich. Maj? Wainwright tells me of the death of Mr. 
Brakenbury. 

xr. 16. Heard the church [Kings Chapel] Bell ring for 
Capt. Crofts. He dyed last night. 

xr. 19. Is buried in the New burying place in Capt. Ham- 
ilton’s —Tomb. Corps was first had into the church anda 
Funeral Sermon preach’d. For Debauchery and Irreligion he 
was one of the vilest Men that has set foot in Boston. ‘Tis said 


170 SEWALL’S DIARY 


he refused to have any Minister call’d to pray with him during 
his Sickness, which was above a fortnight. 

Dec’ 30. 1702. I was weigh’d in Col. Byfield’s Scales: 
weight One Hundred One Half One Quarter wanting 3 
pounds, i. e. 193 pounds Net. Col. Byfield weighed Sixty three 
pounds more than I: had only my close coat on. ‘The Lord 
add, or take away from this our corporeal weight, so as shall be 
most advantagious for our Spiritual Growth. July 31. 1721 
[in Margin]. I weighed 228 £ p cous. Sam! Sewall’s Scales. 

Febr. 22. Mrs. Willard and several of her children had 
like to have been cast away coming from Cambridge by Water, 
wind was so very high; put ashore at last on Muddy-River 
Marsh: Got to the Gov" by that time twas dark. ‘This morn- 
ing as I was praying alone, I was much affected to think how 
concern’d and inquisitive I was in my Journeying about my 
Way; whether I was in the right or no; and yet not so con- 
stantly and effectually inquisitive about my Way to Heaven, 
although I was equally hastening to my Journey’s End; 
whether in the right or wrong way. May He who is the Way, 
the Truth, and the Life, bring me into and always keep me in 
the right Way! 

March, 16. 17024 Though all things look horribly win- 
terly by reason of a great storm of Snow, hardly yet over, and 
much on the Ground: yet the Robbins cheerfully utter their 
Notes this morn. So should we patiently and cheerfully sing 
the Praises of God, and hope in his Mercys, though Storm’d by 
the last efforts of Antichrist. 

Second-day of the Week July 5 1703. I had my son to 
Cambridge again in Austin’s Calash. Paid Andrew Bordman 
his Cautionary Three pounds, in order to my Son Joseph’s 
being Admitted. Went to Mr. Flynt’s Chamber, where Col. 
Wainright’s Son and others were upon Examination. When 
that was doing, and over, Mr. Willard call’d for Joseph’s 
Theme. Read it, gave to Mr. Flynt, Then in Mr. Flynt’s 
Study, The President and Fellows sign’d his Laws; President 


SEWALL’S DIARY iyt 


said, your Son is now one of us, and he is wellcom. I thanked 
him; and took Leave. Coming home I order’d Mr. Sheriff 
to take up a Scurvy post out of the middle of the High way, 
that had been a Nusance for many years. Gave his Son a 
shilling for his pains. Got home well. Laus Deo. Was 
pretty much Rain at Charlestown; yet we went almost quite 
dry, being but a small Sprinkling where we were. 

Augt 23. 1703. I went to Cambridge to see Joseph settled 
in his study, help’d to open his Chest. Joseph was at home the 
Sabbath, and went up on foot by Charlestown. ‘This day sev- 
eral very unusual Circles were seen about the sun. Mr. Lever- 
ett first told me of them, but I saw them not. 

Dec’ 11. Poor little Hull Sewall dies in Mr. Phips’s house 
at Muddy-River about 6. in the evening, of Convulsions. About 
8. at night the Gov" sends us word of it. Dec™ 14. Corps is 
brought to Town in the Governours Slay. Dec? 15. is born 
to our Tomb, and set upon a Box that his great Grandfathers 
Bones now put into it at William’s desire, some being wash’d 
out. On the Box is made with Nails, 1683. 

Second-Day; Jan’ 24. 17034 I paid Capt. Belchar 
£8—15—0. ‘Took 24° in my pocket, and gave my Wife the 
rest of my cash £4.3—-8, and tell her she shall now keep the 
Cash; if I want I will borrow of her. She has a better faculty 
than I at managing Affairs: I will assist her; and will en- 
deavour to live upon my Salary; will see what it will doe. The 
Lord give his Blessing. 

Jan¥ 31. Second day of the week, about four hours before 
day, my Daughter Hirst was delivered of a Living lively 
Daughter. Her mother went to her after the forenoon exer- 
cise Jan’ 30. Mother Hirst came the evening before. We 
have an Answer of Peace to our many Prayers. Laus Deo. 
Mrs. Wakefield was Midwife. Madam Usher, Pemberton, 
Hubbard, Welsteed, Nurse Johnson assisted. Nurse is from 
Salem. 

Febr. 5. Seventh-day of the week; I fasted and pray’d to 


172 SEWALL’S DIARY 


God that Satan might not be commissioned any longer to 
buffet me and my wife; for my self and family in the advanc- 
ing year: and Province &c. for Daughter Hirst, and little 
Mary to be dedicated to Him the next day. 

March 5. ‘The dismal News of the Slaughter made at 
Deerfield is certainly and generally known, Mr. Secretary 
came to me in the morning, and told me of it: I told Mr. Wil- 
lard; by which means our Congregation was made a Bochim. 
[ Judges, II. 1—5.] Tis to be observ’d that the great slaugh- 
ters have been on the Third day of the week; our Court day. 
This was Febr. 29 17034 My Tenant Kibbee was arrested 
this day. 

April, 10. 1704. The Seven and Thirty French privateers 
are brought to Town, who were put a-Shore at Marshfield last 
Friday in the vehemency of the Storm. Feria quarta, Avr. 12. 
In the morning I saw and heard three Swallows playing over 
my head. I think I never observ’d them so soon in the year 
before. Feria Secunda, April, 17th. 1704, I go to Salem to 
see my Bro? Hirst; Speak with Mr. Noyes, who conceives that 
the Witnesses were slain at the conclusion of the Peace of Rys- 
wick, 1697. Passing away of the 24 Wo. at the conclusion of 
the Peace of Carlowitz with the Turk. [1699.] Resurrec- 
tion of the Witnesses by the Convulsions following the death 
of Charles 24 K—of Spain; The 1260 days Expire, and then 
the Witnesses Rise; namely the 1260 Days of the Ten-horn’d 
Beast, his power to make war. Antichrist’s Reign begins at 
the Time of the great Whore’s mounting the Beast, the 10 
horned beast, viz. Afio 1073. Hildebrand papa. At the death 
of Valentinian, the “Ten-horn’d Beast set up; viz. anno, 458. 
Taken from Mr. Noyes’s mouth at Bro” Sewall’s. 

April, 27, 1704. Little Judith is carried on Horseback, Jane 
Green attending her, unto the house of Mr. Robert Avery of 
Dedham, for to be healed of her Rupture. Had Mrs. Wiggles- 
worth’s advice. In the morning, not thinking of her departure, 
I first got her to say after me, Create in me a clean heart, O 


SEWALL’S DIARY 173 


God; and renew a right spirit within me. It was near sun-set, 
when they went away, which made us uneasy: But Mrs. Avery 
was in a readiness with Horses and Company; and the spring 
advancing apace made us consent. I intended 4. p.m. to be 
the latest for their setting out. 

May, 13. I visit little Judith; find her well: visit Mr. 
Belchar. 

Wednesday, June 7th. 1704. Col. Nathan’ Byfield, Mr. 
Palmer and my self have rec'd an Order from the Gov" to 
search for and seize Pirats and their Treasure, and to hold a 
court of Enquiry for this end at Marblehead; because Capt. 
Quelch in the Charles Galley arrived there: we set forward 
this day for Salem, having James Noyes and Joseph Gerrish to 
wait on us. We got to Salem about 8 aclock. There Sam. 
Wakefield, the Water Baily, inform’d Col. Byfield of a Rumor 
there was that Capt. Larrimore was now with the Larramore 
Gally at Cape-Anne; and that two of Quelch’s company de- 
signed to go off in her. Upon this we made out a Warrant to 
the said Wakefield to goe and see into this matter and seize 
the Men if true. Despatch’d him about midnight. 

Thorsday, June 8. We went to Marblehead in the Rain, 
and held our Court at Capt. Brown’s by the Fireside; took 
Major Sewall with us, who return’d to Salem the same night. 

Friday, June, 9° about 6. m. An Express from Cape-Anne, 
gives an Account of 9. or 11. Pirats, double arm’d, seen in a 
Lone-house there. “This Express found us a-bed. We rose 
imediately, Sent for Col. Legg, and directed him to send war- 
rants to the Northward Companies within his Regiment; to 
send such parties as they could raise, to Cape-Anne upon this 
Extraordinary occasion. And writt to Col. Wainright to do 
the Like in his Regiment, intimating that we were moving 
thither our selves to be witness of their forwardness for Her 
Majesties Service. Sent this by James Noyes to shew it to 
Capt. Fisk of Wenham, as he went along. Col. Byf.eld and I 
rode to Salem; there met Dr. Gatchman, took his Affidavit for 


174. SEWALL’S DIARY 


some better foundation for our Actions. Sent him post to the 
Gov’. Bro™ got a shallop, the Trial, and his Pinace, and about 
a score of his Comp? to go by water. Mr. Dudley went by 
water from Marblehead with Col. Legg. Col. Byfield and 
I proceeded with Sheriff Gedney and Capt. Turner and part of 
his Troop by Land: call’d on Lt Brisco at Beverly; that ‘Troop 
resolv’d to go by Jabacko [Chebacco]. Manchester Company 
was mustering upon the top of a Rock; shook hand with Mr. 
Webster. When drew nigh the Town of Glocester a Letter 
from Mr. Dudley and Legg met us, to acquaint us that Larra- 
more Sail’d in the morning and took in the Pirates at the head 
of the Cape. Messenger seem’d to discourage our going for- 
ward. However, we sent back the Sheriff to post their Letter 
to the Gov’, and as many of Salem Troops as would go back, 
persuading them to return. Mr. Dudley had sent to stay Ips- 
wich Regiment and direct their Return. When came to Capt. 
Davis’s, waited Brother’s arrival with his Shallop Trial, and 
Pinace: When they were come and had Din’d, Resolv’d to 
send after Larramore. Abbot was first pitch’d on as Captain. 
But matters went on heavily, ’twas difficult to get Men. Capt. 
Herrick pleaded earnestly his Troopers might be excus’d. At 
last Brother offer’d to goe himself: then Capt. Turner offer’d 
to goe, Lieut Brisco, and many good Men; so that quickly 
made up Fourty two; though we knew not the exact number 
till came home, the hurry was so great, and vessel so small for 
43. Men gave us three very handsom cheers; Row’d out of 
the Harbour after sun-set, for want of wind. Mr. Dudley re- 
turn’d to Salem with Beverly Troop. Col. Byfield and I 
lodg’d at Cape-Ann all night; Mr. White pray’d very well for 
the Expedition Evening and morning; as Mr. Chiever had 
done at Marblehead, whom we sent for to pray with us before 
we set out for Glocester. We rose early, got to Salem quickly 
after Nine. Din’d with Sister, who was very thoughtfull 
what would become of her Husband. ‘The Wickedness and 
despair of the company they pursued, their Great Guns and 


SEWALL’S DIARY 175 


other warlike Preparations, were a terror to her and to most 
of the Town; concluded they would not be Taken without 
Blood. Comforted our selves and them as well as we could. 
Call’d at Lewis’s. Col. Byfield went to Cambridge; Mr. Dud- 
ley and I to Boston, Joseph Gerrish waiting on us. June 12 
Joseph Gerrish comes to my Bed-Chamber-door and Tells of 
Brother’s good success. He dispatched Chapman in the night 
to the Gov’. He came to the Isles Sholes about 7. m. June 10, 
kept his men rank’d with their Arms on both sides the shallop 
in covert; only the four Fishermen were in view: as drew near 
saw the Boat goe ashoar with six Hands, which was a singular 
good Providence of God. Wormwall and three of the Pirats 
were of the six. When were so near that were descryd, Larra- 
mores Men began to run to and fro and pull off the Aprons 
from the Guns, draw out the Tomkins [Tompions], Brother 
shew’d his men. Ask’d Larramore to come aboard. He said 
he could not, his Boat was gon ashore. Bro™ told him he 
would come to him: imediately man’d the Pinace, and did it as 
soon almost as said it, He, Capt. Turner, Abbot step’d aboard. 
Brisco attempted; but one swore no more armed Men should 
come there. Bro™ got the Capt ashore to discourse him, got 
him there to sign two orders; one to send the Lt and one of 
the Pirats ashore; the other for Abbot to comand the Galley 
till they return’d; and so quickly finish’d his business thorowly 
without striking a stroke, or firing a Gun. See the News-Let- 
ter. Twas all order’d and Tim’d and effected by the Singular 
all-powerful gracious Providence of God. 

Feria Sexta, Junij, 30, 1704. After Diner, about 3. p.m. I 
went to see the Execution. By the way (cous. Ephr. Savage 
with me) James Hawkins certifies us of Madam Paiges death; 
he was to make a Tomb. Many were the people that saw 
upon Broughton’s Hill. But when I came to see how the 
River was cover’d with People, I was amazed: Some say 
there were 100 Boats. 150 Boats and Canoes, saith Cousin 
Moody of York. He told them. Mr. Cotton Mather came 


176 SEWALL’S DIARY 


with Capt. Quelch and six others for Execution from the 
Prison to Scarlet’s Wharf, and from thence in the Boat to 
the place of Execution about the midway between Hanson’s 
point and Broughton’s Warehouse. Mr. Bridge was there also. 
When the scaffold was hoisted to a due height, the seven Male- 
factors went up; Mr. Mather pray’d for them standing upon 
the Boat. Ropes were all fasten’d to the Gallows (save King, 
who was Repriev’d). When the Scaffold was let to sink, 
there was such a Screech of the Women that my wife heard 
it sitting in our Entry next the Orchard, and was much sur- 
prised at it; yet the wind was sou-west. Our house is a full 
mile from the place. 

July, 12. feria quarta, went to Dedham in company of Mr. 
Gray, and David Jeffries; find Judith well, carried her a little 
Basket and some Cakes. Mr. Belcher preach’d from Lam. 3. 
Why doth living man complain. Din’d at Mr. Avery’s with 
Judith. Harvest begun. 

Jan’. 6. Begins to be some heat between the Gov" and the 
Deputies. At last the Gov" sends in Mr. Secretary, Mr. E™ 
Hutchinson and Mr. Stoddard, to prorogue the Assembly to 
the 21. Febr. at 10. m. At first the Deputies seem’d to be 
against Prorogation; afterward sent in Capt. Checkly to say, 
That by reason of the thinness of their House, Shortness and 
Coldness of the days, inclined to a Prorogation. Speaker in- 
timated their Desire of a Fast. 

Tuesday, Feb’. 13°. Last night I had a very sad Dream 
that held me a great while. As I remember, I was condemn’d 
and to be executed. Before I went out I read Dr. Arrow- 
smith’s Prayer p 274 which was a comfort to me. A 
Council was warn’d to meet at Noon. I was there one of the 
first: Governour came in and quickly put Capt. Lawson’s Pe- 
tition into my hand; and upon my speaking somthing to it, He 
fell to a vehement chiding about Philip Morse’s business, and 
then with great Loudness and passion spake to the affair of 
Capt. Lason’s; several times said He would dy if ever any such 





SEWALL’S DIARY 177 


thing was done in England except in case of Felony or Trea- 
son, or the like. I objected against that ridiculous part of the 
Petition of his being fore’d by Mr. Clark or me to retire into 
the neighbouring Province; as being a great Reproach to the 
whole Governm'. No body apeared, I expected my Accuser 
face to face. Gov"™ mov’d that a day might be set for a Hear- 
ing: but the Council being but 7, besides my self, declared they 
did not understand what was contain’d in the Petition belong’d 
to them to deal in, i. e. settling a Maintenance. Gov’ said, 
then it must be left to another time. 

Febr. 24. Singing of Birds is come. 

March, 2. Deputies present the Gov’ with Two Hundred 
pounds. “Towards night the Gov" called upon the Council to 
consider George Lason’s Petition; If he might have a Protec- 
tion, he was ready to come. Council excepted against their 
meddling with settling estates of Maintenance; knew not that 
it was his Petition. Spoke pretty much to it. 

March, 3. Gov" said he would now take their vote whether 
they would hear Lason: Twas carried in the Negative, not 
one that I observ’d, speaking for it. JI read a Clause out of 
Dalton shewing when an officer might break open a House. 
Mention’d the Act of Parliamt about cutting Poles where the 
Fine is but Ten shillings; yet a suspected person’s house might 
be entred. In presence of 2 Justices Peers house might be 
broken up and yet peer must not be attach’d or imprison’d. Be- 
cause the Gov’ had said, Must be Treason or Felony. And 
upbraided me, because had broken up the house, and then taken 
his parol till morning. Should have sent him to Prison with 
20 Halberts. No Law for a man to live with his wife. I said 
Gov’ [Thomas] Dudley’s saying was, A bargain’s a Bargain 
and must be made Good; If we look’d to the Form of Mar- 
riage should find twas a great deal Lason had promis’d. Gov't 
seem’d to reject it with disdain, and ask’d Col. Hutchinson 
when he lay with his wife? Col. Hutchinson answer’d, The 
Question should not have been when he lay with his wife; but 


178 SEWALL*S DIARY 


when he lay with another woman. I said, The people were 
ready to pull down Lason’s house, high time for the Govern- 
ment to interpose. Mr. Henchman had not complain’d of the 
Watch for knocking him up the other night. Lason’s house 
was on fire, and he was not aware of it; high time for the 
Government to awaken him. Last night mention’d the Queen’s 
Proclamation, and Governours to do to the utmost to supress 
Imorality and profaneness: None had yet shew’d me any Law 
I had broken. Gov? mention’d Dalton. 

April, 12, 1705. Thanksgiving Day. The Night was so 
cold that was a very great Frost, thick Ice, and the street 
frozen like winter. Remain’d frozen at Noon in the shady 
places of the street. Mr. Melyen had a great Tub of water 
frozen so hard, that it bore two men standing upon it in his 
sight. 

Monday, April, 23. Sam. Robinson sets four Poplars in the 
Foreyard, to shade the windows from the Western sun in 
Sumer. Remov’d the little Peach-Trees. As were setting the 
Trees, heard and saw several Swallows; which are the first I 
remember to have seen this year. Widow Holland visits us. 
Guns fired about Noon: Flags, and Ships Colours flying. 

Lord’s Day, June, 10. 1705. The Learned and pious Mr. 
Michael Wigglesworth dies at Malden about 9. m. Had been 
sick about 10. days of a Fever; 73 years and 8 moneths old. 
He was the Author of the Poem entituled The Day of Doom, 
which has been so often printed: and was very useful as a 
Physician. 

July, 19. Gov? had a New Comission read relating to 
Pirats, and Queens Pleasure read for pardoning the surviving 
Pirats; and they in prison were sent for, and their Pardon de- 
clared in open Court, Chains knock’d off; but must go into 
the Queens service. 

Augt. 24. 1705. Mr. Samuel Myles comes with his Brot 
before me; I bid him, Sam., sit down: but he quickly fell upon 
Nichols [the constable], the complainant against his Bro’, and 


SEWALL’S DIARY 179 


said by his Looks one might see the Gallows groan’d for him; 
I check’d him, and said it did not become a Minister so to 
speak. The constable ask’d me what weight the Money must 
be, 15. or 17. I answered there was no Money but 172 wt: but 
if Capt. Myles offer’d Bills of Credit he must take them. Mr. 
Sam! Myles told me he complain’d of Nichols, but withall told 
me he was not ready to pursue it. 

Nov’ 24, Snow falls and covers the Ground. Has been 
very cold wether this week. 

The College at Quebec was burnt the third time when they 
were there; that set a small chapel at a distance, on fire; the 
chapel fired a high Cross with a Crucifix on it, so that it bowed 
and fell down. [Judges V. 27.] 

Nov’. 25. Mrs. Allen dies, 28, buried, 29. Snow. ‘This 
day hear of Capt. Samuel Clark’s death very suddenly at Sea, 
about 3 weeks ago: Sail’d from St. Thomas 2 or 3 days before. 
Was a good man, liv’d in our house more than Ten years, left 
one Son. The Lord fit me for my change. Dec’. 1. made this 
Distich on the burning of the Quebeck Cross: 


Crux atrox tandem flammam sentire jubetur: 
Ipso Salus fallax tgne probata perit. 


The bawdy bloudy Cross, at length 
Was forc’d to taste the flame: 

The cheating Saviour, to the fire 
Savoury food became. 


Dec’. 1. Deputies send in a Bill against fornication, or 
Marriage of White men with Negros or Indians; with extra- 
ordinary penalties; directing the Secretary to draw a Bill ac- 
cordingly. If it be pass’d, I fear twill be an Opression pro- 
voking to God, and that .which will promote Murders and 
other Abominations. I have got the Indians out of the Bill, 
and some mitigation for them [the Negroes] left in it, and 
the clause about their Masters not denying their Marriage. 


180 SEIWAL TS oD LAR W 


Dect 7. Went to Brooklin, set out about Noon, saw the 
Gov' at his Fence, who invited me in to Diner, stood with his 
Son W™. But I fear’d should lose visiting Mr. Bayley, and 
so pass’d on. After Diner met the Gov" upon the Plain near 
Sol. Phip’s; told me of what hapend on the Road, being in a 
great passion; threaten’d to send those that affronted him to 
England. As I went back, Jn° Bartlet, the middlemost Carter, 
shew’d me the Ground where the three carts stood, which was 
a difficult place to turn; and the Gov" had a fair way to have 
gon by them if he had pleas’d. Upon the Meetinghouse hill 
met Mr. P. Dudley: I ask’d him how he got the men along, 
he said he walk’d them along. Upon Satterday just at night 
Mr. Trowbridge and Winchester came to speak to me that 
their sons might be released out of Prison. It being so late, I 
refer'd them to second-day Morning Dec™ 10. to meet at the 
Secretary’s office. Major Walley and I met there and Mr. 
Attorney, who desired Mr. Leverett might be sent for, being 
so near; and writt a Letter accordingly in our Names, which 
was given to Mr. White. Mr. Leverett came not till 3% day 
xr. 11%. Then in the Afternoon, we agreed to grant a Habeas 
Corpus, and I sign’d it, but Mr. Cook being at Charlestown- 
Court twas not seal’d till Wednesday morning. ‘The writt 
commanded them to be brought to the Court-Chamber in Bos- 
ton on Friday morn, 9. aclock. T'was put off till then that 
might have Mr. Leverett’s company, whose business allow’d 
him not to be here sooner: And that Mr. Attorney [Paul 
Dudley] who was attending Charlestown-Court, might have 
oportunity to be present. 

Sixth-day, xr. 14. Mr. Leverett came, and Mr. Sheriff 
order’d the Prisoners to be brought: Mr. Attorney spoke 
against them: ‘They had no counsil, could procure none. Jus- 
tices withdrew into the Counsil Chamber, and agreed to Bail 
to the Super™ Court, 300£ Prisoners and 3 Sureties each 100£. 
Examin’d the first and put it in writing. And I sent Mr. Cook 
to Mr. Secretary to desire his Assistance, or presence, 


SEWALL’S DIARY 181 


which he declin’d. Some would have had five Hundred 
pounds and more sureties. I urg’d the words of the Act, that 
saith regard is to be had to the quality of the person; These 
men were not worth so much. At last came to Three Hun- 
dred pound. I propounded Two Hundred, and Two sure- 
ties. Thomas Trowbridge 300£ James Trowbridge 100. 
Abraham Jackson 100. and Capt. Oliver Noyes 100. John 
Winchester 300£, John Winchester the Father 1004, Josiah 
Winchester, unkle, 100. Mr. John White £100. I could 
hardly be brought to their being bound to their Good Be- 
haviour, because there was no Oath to justify the charge laid 
in the Mittimus; and the Prisoners pleaded their Inocence. 
No Complaint in writing. A little after Two aclock all was 
finish’d. I am glad that I have been instrumental to Open the 
Prison to these two young men, that they might repair to their 
wives and children and Occasions; and that might have Lib- 
erty to assemble with God’s People on the Lord’s Day. I writt 
earnestly to Col. Hathorne to desire him, an experienced Trav- 
eller, to help us to steer between Scylla and Charibdis: I men- 
tiond it in Court. Mr. Willard sung 72 PS. from the 4 v. 
two Staves—Poor of the People-—While we were deliberat- 
ing in the Council-Chamber, P. Dudley writt a Letter, that 
would not Bail them yet; that would be an error on the right 
hand; he would write to his father Mompresson, Mr. Secre- 
tary was not Settled in his opinion. Not one Gentleman 
present but thought they would not be Bail’d. Mr. Leverett 
shew’d me the Letter, writt an Answer and copied it on Mr. 
Dudley’s. In publick I offer’d Coke’s pleas of the Crown to 
be read, especially as to that clause of High Treason for killing 
the Chancellor &c. He declined having it read. I had the 
Statute Book there, Coke pleas Crown, and Reading on the 
Statutes, stuck to 31. Car. 24, that Comands all to be Bail’d 
that are not Committed for Felony or Treason. 

Feb. 27. My Neighbour Deming came to me, and ask’d of 
me the Agreement between himself and Joana Tiler; I told 


182 SE W/ALAL Sy Deaths 


him I was to keep it for them both and could not deliver it; 
he said he was going to Cambridge to ask Mr. Leverett’s Ad- 
vice, he would bring it safe again. When he still urged and 
insisted, I told him I would not have him lose his time, I 
would not deliver it; I would give him a copy if he pleas’d. He 
said he was in haste and could not stay the writing of it. I 
said, You would not take it well that I should deliver it to 
‘Tiler; no more could I deliver it to him. He said some what 
sourly, I am sorry you have not more Charity for him. And 
going away, murmuring said, passing out of the Stove-Room 
into the Kitchen, I have desired a Copy, offered Money and 
am Deny’d: I was then more mov’d than before, and said 
with some earnestness, Will you speak false to my face? He 
went away, and came not again, but his son came, and I gave 
him a Copy of the Agreement, writen with my own hand. I 
thank God, I heartily desired and endeavoured a good Agree- 
ment between him and his Neighbour as to the Bounds of their 
Land although he be thus out of Tune, upon my denying to 
grant his Unjust Petition. 

Tuesday, Apr. 23. Govr. comes to Town guarded by the 
Troops with their Swords drawn; dines at the Dragon, from 
thence proceeds to the Townhouse, Illuminations at night. 
Capt. Pelham tells me several wore crosses in their Hats; 
which makes me resolve to stay at home; (though Maxwell 
was at my House and spake to me to be at the Council-Cham- 
ber at 4. p.m.) Because to drinking Healths, now the Keep- 
ing of a Day to fictitious St. George, is plainly set on foot. It 
seems Capt. Dudley’s Men wore Crosses. Somebody had 
fasten’d a cross to a Dog’s head; Capt. Dudley’s Boatswain 
seeing him, struck the Dog, and then went into the shop, next 
where the Dog was, and struck down a Carpenter, one Davis, 
as he was at work not thinking anything: Boatswain and the 
other with him were fined 10s each for breach of the peace, by 
Jer. Dumer Esqr: pretty much blood was shed by means of 
this bloody Cross, and.the poor Dog a sufferer. 


SEW ALES 7 DA Rie 183 


Friday, 8° 18. I visit Mr. Baily: as I enter, he saith, I am 
even gon, even gon! said he had a Fever; the night before and 
that day had subdued his Nature. In his Paroxism said, Cut- 
ting, Cutting, Cutting all to pieces: My Head, my Head; 
could not bear the Boys choping without door. 

Tuesday, 8° 22. I go to Roxbury Lecture, Mr. Cotton Ma- 
ther preach’d from 1 Jn° 5. 13. Concerning Assurance, with 
much affecting Solidity and Fervor. Went to see Mr. Baily, 
whose Mouth and Tongue were so furr’d, he could hardly 
speak at first: said he had been a long time in a storm at the 
Harbours Mouth, hop’d he should not be swallow’d on Quick- 
sands, or split on Rocks. God had not yet forsaken him, and 
he hop’d He never would. Said, Here I Wait! 

Midweek, Dec? 11. I visited Mr. Bayley, find Mr. Wal- 
ter with him; I moved that seeing Mr. Walter and I seldom 
met there together, Mr. Walter might go to prayer; which he 
did excellently; that Mr. Bayley and we our selves might be 
prepared to dye. Mr. Bayley is now, the night before last, 
taken with Pleuretick Pains, which go beyond those of the 
stone; New Pains: Cryes out, My Head! my Head! what shall 
I doe? Seems now to long, and pray for a Dismission. At 
parting I gave his Sister Cheyny a Ten-Shilling Bill for him, to 
help to buy some Necessaries; I could not help them to watch. 
Mr. Bayley said he thought he should dye of a Consumption of 
the Lungs; by’s Cough he found they were touch’d. ‘When he 
mention’d the pain in his side: I said, twas sad for a Man to 
be circumvented with his Enemies: He answered pretty 
readily, He hop’d there were more with him than against him. 
He desired me to write to his Brother Joseph to come and see 
him. Dec? 13. I gave my Letter to J. Bayley to Mr. Simkins, 
who said he had one to send it by. 

Dect 24. Feria Tertia. My wife and I execute a Lease to 
Mr. Seth Dwight, for 21. years, of the House he dwells in. 
Mr. Eliezer Moodey writt the Leases; and he and David Sin- 
clair were Witnesses: T'was transacted in our Bedchamber, 


184. SEWALL’S DIARY 


Feria septima, Dec 28, 1706. A large fair Rainbow is seen 
in the Morning in the Norwest. Madam Walley call’d her 
Husband into the Shop to see it. ‘The Gov" being indispos’d 
with the Gout, call’t a Council to meet at Roxbury; and by 
that means I gain’d an Oportunity to see my friend Bayley 
once again: He is now brought very low by his Stone, Fever, 
Sore Tongue and Mouth; could hardly speak a word to me. 
But he said, sit down. His wife ask’d him if he knew me? He 
answer’d, with some quickness, He should be distracted, if he 
should not know me. He Thank’d me when I came away. I 
said Christ would change his vile body, and make it like his 
glorious body. And when the Coachman call’d, saying the 
Company staid for me, I took leave, telling him God would 
abide with him; Those that Christ loves, he loves to the end. 
He bow’d with his head. His wife and sister weep over him. 

Midweek, JanY 15%. <A great Storm of Snow; yet Dan! 
Bayley breaks through, and brings us a Load of Walnut Wood. 
I had transcribed some choice sentences out of Calvin’s Ex- 
posit. Mat. 4. 1, 2, 3, 4. and sent them by Daniel; Letter was 
just seal’d before he came, written and dated today. ‘The 
Storm prevail’d so, that not one of our Meeting ventured to 
come to our House where it was to bee Mrs. Deming, and 
her daughter-in-Law, and Mrs. Salter came over; waited till 
six-a-clock, and then sung the 2 last Staves of the 16. Ps. Eat 
some Bread and drank. 

Saturday morn, Jan¥ 18, James Robinson, the Baker, com- 
ing from Roxbury, tells me Mr. Bayley dyed the last night 
2 hours after midnight; one in Roxbury-street bid him tell me 
so. 

Jan¥ 26, [I dream’d last night that I was chosen Lord 
Maior of London; which much perplex’d me: a strange absurd 
Dream! 

Febr. 9t8 Lord’s Day; The latter part of the Night, and this 
morn, we had great Lightening, and Thunder, Rain and Hail. 


SEWALL’S DIARY 185 


Febr. 10. A pleasant, Serene, sun-shiny Day; sweet singing 
of Birds. 

27, Dr. Mather was not at Lecture. Mr. Cotton Ma- 
ther preached, Sung 10 14% 27% Ps. Mr. Dwight is much 
troubled about digging his Cellar; I get Mr. Cook and Capt. 
Clark to go to him after Lecture, and view the work and speak 
to Mr. Gibbins; they seem’d to be offended at Mr. Dwight’s 
smart Replyes to Mr. Gibbins and his wife; and spake a little 
coldly, and told me it were best to agree. I went again near 
night, and Dwight told me, Mrs. Gibbins intended next day to 
make another Gateway, and hinder’d the workmen from dig- 
ging home at that corner: whereupon I order’d the Men to 
digg it down, which they quickly did, at which Gibbins storm’d 
and ask’d me why I did not bid him pull down his House, if I 
did, they would do it. And Mrs. Gibbins spake many op- 
probrious words: But the men went on vigorously. Febr. 28. 
Gibbins orders Mr. Bernard’s men to cutt another Gate-way, 
and with the Boards cut out nail’d up her own former Gate- 
way: then laid a Board, a door, over from the Cutt Gate-way 
over the Corner of the Cellar and pass that way, and the 
Negro said, This is our passage-way. I said little to it, but 
went in, and talk’d with Mr. Gibbins, his wife and son; and 
were ready to put it to Men to determin what should be; Mr. 
Dwight came in: and said he would not agree to put it to 
Men: I told Mr. Gibbins I would speak to him, and come 
again after Diner. I went accordingly, and when I return’d 
found they had been Pumping Tubs of Water, and throwing 
them into my new-dug Cellar, to soften the Workmen’s Corns, 
as they said, so that the men were forc’d to leave off working. 
Several Tubs of water were thrown in while I sat in the 
House: I only call’d to Mrs. Gibbins and told her I saw she 
could not wait till I came. Durham came and dug through 
the Stone-wall into this little new Cellar, and I think that 
quell’d our antagonists: for our Cellar being a little higher 
than theirs, all the water would have run upon themselves. 





186 SEWALL’S DIARY 


And after, the Select-Men, several of them viewing it, coun- 
tenanc’d my Tenant; Mr. Secretary also look’d in upon us: 
and the workmen went on peaceably. 

Lord’s Day, June, 15. I felt my self dull and heavy and 
Listless as to Spiritual Good; Carnal, Lifeless; I sigh’d to God, 
that he would quicken me. 

June 16. My House was broken open in two places, and 
about I‘wenty pounds worth of Plate stolen away, and some 
Linen; My Spoon, and Knife, and Neckcloth was taken: I 
said, Is not this an Answer of Prayer? Jane came up, and 
gave us the Alarm betime in the morn. I was helped to submit 
to Christ’s stroke, and say, Wellcome CHRIST! 

June, 19°. The measuring Bason is found with Margaret 
Barton just carrying of it to Sea, to Hingham; said she had it 
of James Hews, he gave it her to sell for him. Mr. Secretary 
sent her to Prison. 

June, 21. Billy Cowell’s shop is entered by the Chimney, 
and a considerable quantity of Plate stolen. I give him a War- 
rant to the Constable, they find James Hews hid in the Hay 
in Cabal’s Barn, on the Back side of the Comon; while they 
was seising of him under the Hay, he strip’d off his Pocket, 
which was quickly after found, and Cowell’s silver in it. At 
night I read out of Caryl on Job, 5. 2. The humble submis- 
sion to the stroke of God, turns into a Kiss —which I thank 
God, I have in this Instance experienced. Laus Deo. 

7* 10%. Midweek, sentenced a woman that whip’d a Man, 
to be whip’d; said a woman that had lost her Modesty, was 
like Salt that had lost its savor; good for nothing but to cast 
to the Dunghill: 7 or 8 join’d together, call’d the Man out of 
his Bed, guilefully praying him to shew them the way; then 
by help of a Negro youth, tore off his Cloaths and whip’d him 
with Rods; to chastise him for carrying it harshly to his wife. 
Got out of Town to Rehoboth. 

Tuesday, Oct? 28. 1707. The Fellows of Harvard College 
meet, and chuse Mr. Leverett President: He had eight votes, 


SEWALL) SI DIARY 187 


Dr. Increase Mather three, Mr. Cotton Mather, one, and Mr. 
Brattle of Cambridge, one. Mr. White did not vote, and Mr. 
Gibbs came when voting was over. 

Nov’. 25. 1707. The Gov" read Mr. Cotton Mather’s Let- 
ter to Sir Charles Hobby in Council, the Copey being sign’d 
by Mr. Povey, and animadverted on several paragraphs; When 
the Gov" came to the horrid Reign of Bribery: His Excel- 
lency said, None but a Judge or Juror could be Brib’d, the 
Governour could not be bribed, sons of Belial brot him no 
Gifts. Mov’d that Col. Hutchinson, Mr. Secretary, Col. 
Townsend and Mr. Cushin go to Mr. Cotton Mather with the 
Copy of his Letter to Sir Charles Hobby, and his Letters to the 
Gov’, and speak to him about them: this was agreed to. I 
shew’d some backwardness to it, fearing what the Issue might 
be; and hinting whether it might not be better for the Gov" to 
go to him himself: That seem’d to be Christ’s Rule, except the 
Gov" would deal with him in a Civil way. 

Nov’™. 26. Mr. Secretary reports the Discourse with Mr. 
Cotton Mather favourably; It seems they stay’d there more 
than two Hours; and Dr. Mather was present. Mr. Mather 
neither denys, nor owns the Letter: Think his Letters to the 
Goy', and that to Sir Charles Hobbey, not so inconsistent as 
they are represented. By Candle-Light before they went, It 
was debated whether Mr. Mather should be sent for before 
the Council; or whether the Gentlemen should go to him. 
Then I that had been backward to meddle in it before, plainly 
declar’d my mind that twas best for the Gentlemen to go to 
him; and so twas carried when put to the Vote. Mr. Secre- 
tary is well pleas’d that he went. 

Friday, Nov’. 28. 1707. The Gov" puts forward to have the 
vote of July 9. 1706. of the Representatives, the vote of the 
Council of Nov" 1., the vote of the Representatives Nov’. 21., 
Printed, to prevent spreading false Reports: I said I could 
not vote to it because I had withdrawn my vote. The Goy' 
said, I pray God judge between me and you! Col. Townsend 


188 CHE WIA, Le S oD ae 


told me I was a Temporiser; I hop’d Mr. Higginson would 
be Gov", and endeavour’d to procure his favor. Prayer. Lord, 
do not depart from me, but pardon my sin; and fly to me in a 
way of favourable Protection! Capt. Phips brings in Mr. 
Leverett Non-Concurr’d. Moves from the House that a suit- 
able person be thought of to take care of the College till May 
Sessions. Col. Townsend tells me that my purpose to with- 
draw my Vote was known a week ago; Mr. Oaks mention’d 
it in the House; He was my Counsellor. Whereas he really 
knew nothing of it; and now tells me, he never mention’d my 
Name. 

Dec’. 5. Dine at Holm’s. I supos’d the Council had 
Treated the Gov’, But the Gov’ would pay. A Message is 
sent in to the Deputies about the College; whereupon they 
withdraw their Non-concurrence; rase out (Non) and turn 
it to Concur’d; And vote Mr. Leverett a Salary of One Hun- 
dred and Fifty pounds per afum out of the publick Treasury. 

Dec’. 6. Some desire that it may be put in the Bill that Mr. 
Leverett Lay down all his Civil offices; as Judge of Probat, 
and judge of the Superiour Court. And entirely to attend that 
service, was inserted, and Mr. Secretary carried it in to the 
Deputies, and took their Consent. Gov" has Iwo Hundred 
pounds given him. Col. Jn°® Appleton, Hunt and I are sent in 
to speak to the Deputies about their denying any Reward to 
the commissioners to Port-Royal; Told them, denying all Re- 
muneration was in a maner to make them Criminals: “Twas 
a burden God in his providence had laid on us, and to go about 
thus to shake it off, would be to his Dishonor. Spake also in 
behalf of Salem Fort and Marblehead. Upon this a Resolve 
was sent in to leave the consideration of it to another Sessions, 
being now a very thin House. Deputies had sent in a long Roll 
of Grievances to be Reform’d, as their Advice: Gov" would 
have had the Council advis’d the contrary in the whole: I 
oposed it, as inconvenient to vote against all together: and it 
was staid. And yet when the Deputies were come in, the Goy" 


SEWALL’S DIARY 189 


took the paper and spoke to it; said he could not go according 
to it without having the Frontiers defenceless; said the Council 
Were unanimously against it. Court is prorogued to the fourth 
of February. 

Feria quinta, Dec’ 11° 1707. ‘Thanks-giving-day, very se- 
rene, moderate, comfortable Wether. Mr. Pemberton preaches 
forenoon and afternoon. Yesterday I was told of a vast number 
of Pigeons in the Woods this Moneth. Capt. Mills at his 
Sister’s Wedding says he saw an incredible Number at Wood- 
stock last Friday. 

Jan’. 23, 170%. I go to the Funeral of Anne Needham, 
who died in Child-bed: her former Husband was Lawson: her 
first, Airs, to whom I married her Nov’. 5. 1690. At first I 
walk’d next the women with Mr. Wentworth: when had gon 
a little way Mr. Cotton Mather came up and went with me. 
Funeral was from Coney’s Lane, to the new Burying-place. 
There Mr. Mather ask’d me to go with him to Madam 
Usher’s, where we staid till past six. Speaking of death, I said 
twas a Hapiness to be so Conform’d to Christ, And it was a 
pleasure to take part with God in executing a righteous Sen- 
tence upon one’s self, to aplaud his Justice Mr. Mather 
said that was high-flying; he would have such High-flyers be 
at his Funeral. Had been mentioning Mr. Dod’s Will. As 
went thence told me of his Letter to the Gov" of the 20% Ins*. 
and Lent me the Copy; intends to send another to Mr. Paul 
Dudley. Dr. Mather it seems has also sent a Letter to the 
Gov’. I wait with Concern to see what the issue of this plain 
homedealing will be! I desir’>d Mr. Mather to promote Col. 
Thomas’s being brought into the Superior Court, if there was 
oportunity: the 12‘ Feb’. is apointed for a Nomination. 

Jan¥ 30. 170% John Neesnummin [Indian Preacher] 
comes to me with Mr. R. Cotton’s Letters; I shew him to Dr. 
Mather. Bespeak a Lodging for him at Matthias Smith’s: but 
after they sent me word they could not doe it. So I was fain 
to lodg him in my Study. Jan’ 31 p.m. I send him on his 





190 SEWALL’S DIARY 


way towards Natick, with a Letter to John Trowbridge to 
take him in if there should be occasion. About half an hour 
by sun I went to the Funeral of my neighbour Sam Engs: I 
went first with Mr. Meers, and then with Mr. Pemberton, 
who talk’d to me very warmly about Mr. Cotton Mather’s 
Letter to the Gov", sem’d to resent it, and expect the Gov" 
should animadvert upon him. See Feb. 6. Said if he were as 
the Gov’ he would humble him though it cost him his head; 
Speaking with great vehemency just as I parted with him at 
his Gate. The Lord apear for the Help of his people. 
Second-day, Feb™ 9. 170%. ‘The Apointment of a Judge for 
the Super. Court being to be made upon next Fifth day, Febr. 
12, I pray’d God to Accept me in keeping a private day of 
Prayer with Fasting for That and other Important Matters: 
I kept it upon the Third day Febr. 10. 170% in the uper 
Chamber at the North-East end of the House, fastening the 
Shutters next the Street. Perfect what is lacking in my 
Faith, and in the faith of my dear Yokefellow. Convert my 
children; especially Samuel and Hanah; Provide Rest and Set- 
tlement for Hanah: Recover Mary, Save Judith, Elisabeth and 
Joseph: Requite the Labour of Love of my Kinswoman Jane 
Tappin, Give her health, find out Rest for her. Make David a 
man after thy own heart, Let Susan live and be baptised with 
the Holy Ghost, and with fire. Relations. Steer the Govern- 
ment in this difficult time, when the Governour and many 
others are at so much Variance: Direct, incline, overrule on 
the Council-day fifth-day, Febr. 12. as to the special Work of 
it in filling the Super. Court with Justices; or any other thing 
of like nature; as Plim® infer Court. Bless the Company for 
propagation of the Gospel, especiall Gov" Ashurst &c. Revive 
the Business of Religion at Natick, and accept and bless John 
Neesnumin who went thither last week for that end. Mr. 
Rawson at Nantucket. Bless the South Church in preserving 
and spiriting our Pastor; in directing unto suitable Supply, and 
making the Church unanimous: Save the Town, College; 





SEWALL’S DIARY Igl 


Province from Invasion of Enemies, open, Secret, and from 
false Brethren: Defend the Purity of Worship. Save Connec- 
ticut, bless their New Governour: Save the Reformation under 
N. York Governm't. Reform all the European Plantations in 
America; Spanish, Portuguese, English, French, Dutch; Save 
this New World, that where Sin hath abounded, Grace may 
Superabound; that CHRIST who is stronger, would bind the 
strong man and spoil his house; and order the Word to be 
given, Babylon is _ fallen. Save our Queen, lengthen 
out her Life and Reign. Save France, make the Proud helper 
stoop [Job. LX. 13], Save all Europe; Save Asia, Africa, Eu- 
rope and America. “These were gen! heads of my Meditation 
and prayer; and through the bounteous Grace of GOD, I had 
a very Comfortable day of it. 

Feria quinta, March, 25, 1708. Intending to set out for 
Plimouth the 27. I went to the Major Gen!* and to Mrs. 
Sergeant’s to Receive their Bills if they pleas’d to pay them: 
found neither at home, and so went not in. Coming back, in 
the prison-Lane I met Mr. Sergeant. He ask’d me where I 
had been, I told him at his house: He said, What for, Money? 
I said Yes. At which he was angry, and said I was very hasty, 
I knew very little of that nature. He would enquire how 
others paid me &c. I told him I was going out of Town, this 
was the day, and I thought it convenient to offer the Bills; he 
said he should not break; and at last call’d out aloud, he should 
not break before I came back again! I know no reason for 
this Anger; the Lord sanctify it to me, and help me to seek 
more his Grace and favour. This day was very stormy with 
Rain, and then with Snow; a pretty deal of Thunder. Maj 
Cutler was with me in the morning. 

Feria Sexta, April, 2. Last night I dream’d that I had my 
daughter Hirst in a little Closet to pray with her; and of a 
sudden she was gon, I could not tell how; although the Closet 
was so small, and not Cumber’d with Chairs or Shelves. I 
was much affected with it when I waked. 





192 SEWALL’S DIARY 


Feria septima, Apr. 3. I went to Cous. Dumer’s to see his 
News-Letter: while I was there Mr. Nath! Henchman came 
in with his Flaxen Wig; I wish’d him Joy, i. e. of his Wed- 
ding. I could not observe that he said a Word to me; and gen- 
erally he turn’d his back upon me, when none were in the 
room but he and I. This is the Second time I have spoken to 
him, in vain, as to any Answer from him. First was upon the 
death of his Wife, I cross’d the way near our house, and ask’d 
him how he did: He only shew’d his Teeth. 

Feria secunda, Apr. 5. Great Rain, whereby I am pre- 
vented meeting Major Thaxter at Milton to run a Line, as I 
intended. 

Feria secunda, Apr. 12, 1708. I went and met Major 
Thaxter at Miller’s at Milton to run the Lines of the 300. 
Acres bought of Mr. Stoughton; Cousin Quinsey, Mr. Swift, 
Miller, White, Hunt, assisted us.) Mr. William Rawson, hav- 
ing Land adjoining, was with us all day; Billing a considerable 
while. Capt. Culliver and others perambulating for Braintrey 
and Milton, went with us from B. to C. which was measured, 
whereby the place we set out from was ascertain’d to be the 
North Corner, of which there was some doubt before: At C. 
the old white Oak mark with H., we drank a Bottle of Madera 
together, read the Queens Speech to the first Parliament of 
great Britain, and so took leave of the perambulators. Major 
‘Thaxter, Cous. Quinsey, and White went quite through the 
Swamp, marking Trees: southward of the Swamp is a small 
Chestnut White-Oak; a little after that the Line brushes by 
a Ledge of Rocks, touches them. At D. the Oak upon the 
Rock is cut down injuriously, there it lyes and no use made of 
it: by the Stump grows up a fine little Chestnut Oak, which 
was prun’d; twas double and one is cut away to make the other 
grow the better. In the Line from D to A found several Trees 
mark’d with H. At A. we enlarg’d the Heap of Stones upon 
the Rock and from thence, as all along, run by Compass and 
the anciently marked Trees to C., where we begun; which 


SEWALL’S DIARY 193 


prov’d all the Work to be Right: There we made a large heap 
of Stones upon the Stump of a Tree burnt down. 

Wednesday, 8' 27, 1708. My wife is taken very sick as she 
was last April; taken with Shaking and intolerable pain in her 
Brest. Maj" Gen! visits her and she takes some of his powder; 
but it cast up so soon, that it works little. Great Rain. Dr. 
Noyes visits and administers: on Friday grows better, Laus 
Deo. 

Monday, Nov? 1. Gov’ best Horse dyes in his Pasture at 
Roxbury as goe to Dedham. Bouroughs, a worstedcomber, 
was at Mr. Colman’s Meeting on the L. day p. m., went home- 
ward towards Roxbury in the night; got beyond the Salt-ponds, 
and fell down a-cross the Cart path in the Mud, and there 
perished; was found dead on Monday morn, Nov’ 1. And 
tho the Coroner did his Office in the Morning; yet the Corps 
lay as a sad spectacle, gazed on till late in the Afternoon. 

Gov’ calls and smokes a pipe with my wife at night 9° 1. 

Jan’ 31, 170%. Mr. Spensar calls here, and I enquire of 
him about Mr. Gerrish of Wenham, what he should say; He 
answer’d not directly; but said his Cousin would come if he 
might have admittance. I told him I heard he went to Mr. 
Coney’s daughter. He said he knew nothing of that: I de- 
sired him to enquire, and tell me. I understood he undertook 
it; but he came no more. 

Feb? 4 Nurse Smith buried. Coming from the Grave I 
ask’d Mr. Pemberton whether S. Gerrish courted Mr. Coney’s 
daughter; he said No; not now. Mr. Coney thought his 
daughter young. 

Feb’ 5. Storm of Snow, and I goe not out. 

Feb’ 6. is a Comfortable day. Feb" 7*® I deliver a Letter to 
S. Gerrish to inclose and send to his father, which he promises 
to doe. 

Febr. 17. I receive Mr. Gerrishes Letter just at night. 
Febr. 18. I leave Word at Mr. Gerrishes shop that I would 
speak with him after Mr. Bromfield’s Meeting was over. He 


194 SEWALL’S DIARY 


came and I bid him wellcom to my house as to what his father 
writt about. So late hardly fit then to see my daughter, 
apointed him to come on ‘Tuesday, invited him to Super; I 
observ’d he drunk to Mary in the third place. Febr. 23. When 
I came from the Meeting at Mr. Stephens’s I found him in the 
Chamber, Mr. Hirst and wife here. It seems he ask’d to 
speak with Mary below; her Mother was afraid because the 
fire was newly made: and Mr. Hirst brought him up. This 
I knew not of: He ask’d me below, whether it were best to 
frequent my House before his father came to Town: I said 
that were the best introduction: but he was wellcom to come 
before, and bid him come on Friday night. Febr. 24. Mr. 
Hirst tells me Mr. Gerrish courted Mr. Coney’s daughter: I 
told him I knew it, and was uneasy. In the evening daughter 
Hirst came hether, I supose to tell that Mr. Gerrish had 
courted Mr. Coney’s daughter: and if she should have Mr. 
Stoddard, she would mend her market. Friday, Febr. 25. 
Madam Winthrop, Oliver, and Mico visit my wife. In the 
evening S. Gerrish comes not; we expected him, Mary dress’d 
her self: it was a painfull disgracefull disapointment. Febr. 
26. Satterday, Sam Gerrish goes to Wenham unknown to 
me, till Lords-day night Capt. Greenleaf told me of it. He 
was not seen by us till Wednesday March 2, David saw him. 

March, 14. The Revert Mr. Joseph Gerrish comes to our 
house in the evening. Dines with us March 15 Tuesday. At 
night his Son comes, and Mary goes to him. Mr. Gerrish goes 
home on Wednesday. His son comes and is entertain’d then 
also. 

Friday-night. §. Gerrish comes. ‘Tells Mary except Sat- 
terday and Lord’s-day nights intends to wait on her every 
night; unless some extraordinary thing hapen. 

Satterday, March 19. I call at S. Gerishes shop; he was 
not within: but came in presently: I desired him to Bind me 
a Psalm-Book in Calv’s Leather. 

May, 2. Being Artillery day, and Mr. Higginson dead, I 


SEWALL’S DIARY 195 


put on my Mourning Rapier; and put a black Ribband into 
my little cane. When I enter’d the Council-Chamber, the 
Gov’ with an Air of displeasure said, You are Chidden! pre- 
tending my late coming; though I think I was there before 
eleven, and am, I think, the most constant attender of Councils. 

I dined with the Artillery at Powells, whether Maxwell 
came and warn’d me to Council at 3. There I waited all 
alone, as many times I doe. At length the Gov’ came. When 
Col. Hathorne had his Quota 76. given him, he expostulated 
a little; upon which the Gov’ was very angry, and took him up 
with very smart words. I was on the same side of the beard, 
and saw his Warrant. Then I went to my own, and seeing a 
number of Letters ly under the Secretaryes hand, I made a mo- 
tion to see one which the Secretary declin’d: and the Gov’ tak- 
ing notice of it with a very angry Air said to me, I will not be 
Govern’d by You! 

Midweek, July, 13. 1709. N.B. Last night, between 2 or 
3 hours after midnight, my wife complain’d of Smoak; I pres- 
ently went out of Bed, and saw and felt the Chamber very full 
of Smoak to my great Consternation. I slipt on my Cloaths 
except Stockings, and run out of one Room into another above, 
and below Stairs, and still found all well but my own Bed- 
chamber. I went into Garret and rouz’d up David, who 
fetch’d me a Candle. My wife fear’d the Brick side was a-fire, 
and the children endangered. She fled thither, and call’d all 
up there. While she was doing this, I felt the partition of my 
Bed-Chamber Closet warm; which made me with fear to 
unlock it, and going in I found the Deal-Box of Wafers all 
afire, burning livelily; yet not blazing. I drew away the papers 
nearest to it, and call’d for a Bucket of Water. By that time 
it came, I had much adoe to recover the Closet agen: But I 
did, and threw my Water on it, and so more, and quench’d it 
thorowly. Thus with great Indulgence GOD saved our 
House and Substance, and the Company’s Paper. ‘This night, 
as I lay down in my Bed, I said to my Wife, that the Good- 


196 SEWALL’S DIARY 


ness of God apeared, in that we had a Chamber, a Bed, and 
Company. If my Wife had not waked me, we might have 
been consumed. And it seems admirable, that the opening the 
Closet-Door did not cause the Fire to burst forth into an Un- 
quenchable Flame. The Box was 18 inches over, Closet full 
of loose papers, boxes, Cases, some Powder. ‘The Window- 
Curtain was of Stubborn Woolen and refus’d to burn though 
the Iron-Bars were hot with the fire. Had that burnt it would 
have fired the pine-shelves and files of Papers and Flask and 
Bandaliers of powder. “The Pine-Floor on which the Box 
stood, was burnt deep, but being well plaister’d between the 
Joysts, it was not burnt through. ‘The Closet under it had 
Hundreds of Reams of the Company’s Paper in it. ‘The 
plaistered Wall is mark’d by the Fire so as to resemble a Chim- 
ney back. Although I forbad mine to cry Fire; yet quickly 
after I had quench’d it; the Chamber was full of Neighbours 
and Water. ‘The smell of Fire pass’d on me very much; 
which lasted some days. We imagine a Mouse might take our 
lighted Candle out of the Candle-stick on the hearth and dragg 
it under my closet-door behind the Box of Wafers. The good 
Lord sanctify this Threatening; and his Parental Pity in im- 
proving our selves for the Discovery of the fire, and Quench- 
ing it. Ihe Lord teach me what I know not; and wherein I 
have done amiss help me to doe so no more! 

Midweek, Augt 24. In the evening Mr. Pemberton marrys 
Mr. Samuel Gerrish, and my daughter Mary: He begun with 
Prayer, and Mr. Gerrish the Bridegroom’s father concluded: 
Mr. Mayhew was present. 

Augt 25. Mr. Cotton Mather, Mr. Pemberton and wife, 
and others, dine with us after Lecture. In the even I invited 
the Gov? and Council to drink a Glass of Wine with me; 
About 20 came; viz. Gov'’., Winthrop, Hathorne, Elisha Hut- 
chinson, Addington, Brown, Foster, Sergeant, Walley, Phillips, 
Townsend, Bromfield, Eliakim Hutchinson, Corwin, Higgin- 


SE WWiA LI LVS) DiIAUR IY, 197 


son, Jn° Apleton, Lynde, Hunt, Cushing, Nordon, Epes. Gave 
them variety of good Drink, and at going away a large piece of 
Cake Wrap’d in Paper. ‘They very heartily wish’d me Joy 
of my daughter’s Marriage. 

8' 3. Gov" calls a Council. I acquainted the Gov" with 
the Condemnation of the two Indian Men at Bristol for Mur- 
der, and the time intended for their Execution. Col. Vetch 
mutter’d somthing as if there was no malice prepense: I told 
him of the man’s kicking his wife into the fire. He said he 
heard not of that. Capt. Blackmore arrives this day and 
brings the Wellcom Orders for going on to point the Bible 
[Indian] and countermanding the selling any more of the 
Genoa Paper, with a considerable Remittance. 

Oct’ 5. Midweek, Mr. Hirst and I take a Calash and 
meet Mr. Gerrish with John behind him. Son Gerrish, his 
wife and Hannah in a Calash. It was a little beyond New- 
hill’s, who now keeps the Swan, that we met them. Din’d 
there, and there Mr. Gerrish would return, delivering up his 
Charge to me. As came homeward went over Charlestown 
Hill on the Neck of Land; and came into the Rode again by 
Mr. Emerson’s. Got home very well, and I went to our 
Meeting at Mr. Thornton’s. Laus Deo. 

Nov’ 6%. lLord’s day; Mr. Rowland Cotton preach’d in 
the forenoon; Mr. Corwin in the Afternoon. Mr. Pemberton 
had propounded Hanah Butler to renew her Baptismal Cov- 
enant; and now mention’d it, and said she had sin’d scandul- 
ously against the 7** Comandment; read her Confession imed- 
iatly, and by the silential vote restored her. I think it is in- 
convenient, when persons have so fallen, not to give the 
Church some previous notice of it; that the Brethren may have 
Oportunity to enquire into the Repentance. An ignorant Con- 
sent is no Consent. And I understood Mr. Pemberton that 
he would not go in that way again. Once before he did it, say- 
ing he knew not of it when the party was propounded. 


198 SEWALL’S DIARY 


Feb' 6, 1704. the Queen’s Birth-day. The Council Treat 
the Gov' at the Green Dragon, with Col. Vetch and several 
others. Mr. Tho. Bridge, Mr. Wadsworth, and Mr. Colman 
were there. Cost us 5° apiece. After our Return to the Coun- 
cil-Chamber, Burnt near Six Thousand pounds of decay’d Bills. 
When the Candles began to be lighted, I grew weary and un- 
easy, and even slip’d away without drinking. When I came 
home, it was a singular Refreshment to me to read 2 Cor. 6. 
especially from the 14** to the end. See Mr. Pemberton’s Ser- 
mon, March, 5 &c. 

March, 27. Am much disheartened by the Snow on the 
ground, and that which was falling, there being a dismal face 
of Winter. Yet the Sun breaking out, I stood along about 10. 
m. Every thing look’d so wild with Snow on the Ground and 
Trees; that was in pain lest I should Wander: But it pleas’d 
God graciously to direct, so that I got well to D. Jacobs, and 
then call’d his Tenant Riply to guid us over the Rocky 
Swamps to Curtis’s. Din’d at Bairstow’s; from thence had the 
under-Sheriff Briant. At Cook’s the Sheriff met me. Mr. J. 
Cotton, Otis and others with him. Got to Rickard’s about 
Sun-set. Laus Deo. 

April 30. Last night the Rudder of Capt. Rose’s Ship was 
cut; [he reason was Capt. Belchar’s sending of her away 
Laden with Wheat in this time when Wheat is so dear. 

Second-day, May, 1, 1710. Fourty or fifty Men get to- 
gether and seek some body to head them to hale Capt. Roses 
Ship ashoar: but they were dissuaded by several sober Men to 
desist, which they did. This was about 5. m. I heard of it as 
I was going to Hog-Island to see my Tenant’s Loss of Sheep. 
Went off about Nine, and return’d between 2 and 3. 

May, 2. Mr. Pemberton prays; 5 Judges there. First 
Lieut Sam. Johnson was made Foreman of the Jury. May, 
3. He pray’d to be dismiss’d by reason of sickness, which was 
granted while I was withdrawn into the Council-Chamber, 
and writing to Mr. C. Mather to dine with us; and Mr. 


SEWALL’S DIARY 199 


Cumby was made Fore-man. At Noon Mr. Attorney ob- 
jected against Cumby that he should say, Sure they cut the 
Rudder themselves, that is, Capt. Roses Men. Upon this Mr. 
Cumby was spoken to by the Court, and he in open Court 
desired dismission, or at least from being Fore-man. He was 
dismiss’d; and Mr. William Torrey was put in. Mr. Attor- 
ney and Capt. Belchar went to the Grand-Jury to forward 
the Bill against those that made the unlawfull Assembly. Just 
after Mr. Cumby was dismiss’d, Capt. Belchar made a motion 
that he might be sworn as a Witness. I look’d upon it as an 
indignity, he having been hardly enough dismiss’d from the 
Grand-jury: and nothing led to the calling him forth but his 
Situation. So I oposed it, and it was not done. I insisted it 
most convenient to proceed with a few and not seek to inflame 
the Reckoning by multiplying Articles. And Col. Foster com- 
plain’d that twas almost like an Inquisition; the manor of 
Capt. Belchars pursuing it in Council. 

This Midweek morn, Mr. Pemberton stood in his Gate, and 
occasion’d my going in with him. He spake very warmly 
about the Unlawfull Assembly: I said such motions ought to 
be supress’d; the thing should be thorowly and effectually dealt 
in. I said twas an ill office in Capt. Belchar to send away so 
great a quantity of Wheat (about 6000 Bushels besides Bread ) 
in this scarce time. Mr. Pemberton said I cherish’d those evil 
seditious Motions by saying so. I said he unjustly charged me. 
He that withholds Corn, the people will curse him, though I 
did not affirm that Scripture Justified the Rioters. I men- 
tion’d something of God’s people, that though they brought 
themselves into Straits by their own fault; yet God pitied and 
help’d them. Mr. Pemberton said, with much fierceness, They 
were not God’s people but the Devil’s people that wanted 
Corn. There was Corn to be had; if they had not impover- 
ish’d themselves by Rum, they might buy Corn. I was stricken 
with this furious Expression. Mr. Pemberton also spake very 
sharply and upbraidingly, that he was invited to Diner, and 


200 SEWALL’S DIARY 


then not sent for at Dinertime; was sick with waiting; lost his 
own Diner; knew not where we din’d; ’twas indecent to ly 
lurking at the ordinary; wanted not a Diner. 

Augt 11. Sixth-day, I visited Mr. Tho. Brattle, who is 
very low and languishing; He express’d great respect to me: 
yet plainly told me, that frequent visits were prejudicial to 
him, it provok’d him to speak more than his strength would 
bear, would have me come seldom. He told me his Thigh was 
no bigger than my Wrist. I said I hop’d as the Wether grew 
Temperat, he might recruit which he seem’d to assent to. 

Nov? 10. 1710. Daughter Gerrish is brought to bed of a 
daughter about 6. m. My wife being with her, I sat up late 
and lay alone. This day with much adoe twas voted that 
would Salem Middle precinct put to vote; and in the After- 
noon twas carried clear in the Affirmative. Mr. Secretary 
stood firm for this. Though the Salem Gentlemen would not 
suffer Capt. Gardener and Company to voted in Salem Town 
Meting; they made no bones of voting against them in the 
Council. 

Nov 13. 1710. I visit Daughter Gerrish, and then ride 
alone to Lewis’s. From thence had Company, and was met 
by the Sheriff. 

Nov 14. Finished the Business of the Court, sitting a little 
by Candle-light. Visited Madam Bradstreet, Bro™ Hirst, 
Major W™ Brown. 

Nov’ 15. Came home, fair Wether, and not very Cold. En- 
guired of Mr. Gerrish as I came along concerning his wife: 
He said she was something disorder’d; but I aprehended no 
danger, and being just come off my journey, went not to see 
her that night. 

Nov’ 16. Thanksgiving. My wife sent my daughter Ger- 
rish part of our Diner, which as I understood she eat of pleas- 
antly. But twas a Cold Day and she was remov’d off her Bed 
on the Palat Bed in the morning. After the Evening Exercise 
my wife and I rode up in the Coach: My daughter ask’d me 


CS BOW Al Le Soe DEAR EY 201 


to pray with her, which I did; pray’d that God would give her 
the Spirit of Adoption to call Him Father. ‘Then I went 
away with Mr. Hirst to his House, leaving my wife with my 
daughter Gerrish, till she call’d to go home. After our coming 
home, the northern Chimney of the New house fell a-fire and 
blazed out extreamly; which made a great Uproar, as is usual. 
An hour or two after midnight Mr. Gerrish call’d me up ac- 
quainting us of the extream illness of his wife; All the family 
were alarm’d, and gather’d into our Bed-Chamber. When I 
came there, to my great Surprise my Daughter could not speak 
to me. They had try’d to call up Mr. Wadsworth; but could 
not make the family hear. I sent for Mr. Mayhew, who came 
and pray’d very well with her. (Joseph pray’d at home with 
the family). [Near] four a clock after Midnight my dear 
child expired, being but Nineteen years, and twenty days old. 
When this was over, I advis’d them to take Mrs. Hubbard’s 
Assistance; left Mr. Mayhew there and went home. When 
I entred my wife’s Bed-Chamber, a dolefull Cry was lifted up. 

7% day, Nov™ 25 Dr. Increase Mather lays before me the 
first Libel, the Copy being of Sam. Sewall’s writing; and men- 
tions Mr. Bromfield, for me to consult with what to doe. 
When at Charlestown Lecture Nov’ 26% I writ a Letter to 
the president to invite him to Diner the 28. that night goe to 
the Commissioners Meeting together. 

Nov? 27. Mr. Bromfield and I grant a Warrant, to bring 
John Banister before us at 9. m. 9° 28. 

Nov? 28. I send my Son to invite Mr. Pemberton to dine 
with me and the President. 

Nov? 28. John Banister apears, sumond by Constable Kal- 
lender. I had desired Col. Townsend to be with us, who came. 
Mr. Tho. Bratle came of himself and pleaded much in favour 
of the Libellers (for Aaron was brought in too) and against 
the injured Doctors, which was the Cause I invited him not to 
Dinner. Fin’d Jn° Banister 20° for each Libel, Aaron Stuckey 
20° for publishing the 2°, Bound them to their good Beha- 


202 SE WANE Leis) Dalai: 


viour. Mr. Brattle argued hard to issue it, and not Bind them 
over to the Sessions: and had Dr. Cotton Mather’s Letter in 
favour of Banister. But he offer’d no Acknowledgment of his 
Crime in writing; so we took this middle way. 

Nov? 28. p. m. When the President and Mr. Pemberton 
came to Diner, I was in my Apartment, Mr. Mayhew and my 
Son with me. The President and Mr. Pemberton being come 
to us; Mr. Pemberton quickly begun to say, What you have 
been holding a Court to day! Had it over again; I was a 
little amus’d at the word Court; however, I began to relate 
what had been done. Mr. Pemberton with extraordinary Ve- 
hemency said, (capering with his feet) If the Mathers order’d 
it, I would shoot him thorow. I told him he was in a passion. 
He said he was not in a Passion. I said, it was so much the 
worse. He said the Fire from the Altar was equal impartial. 
Upbraiding me, very plainly, as I understood it, with Parti- 
ality. The President said, The Governour was barbarously 
Treated (meaning Dr. Cotton Mather’s Letter to his Excel- 
lency). I answered; That was put to the Council. Mr. May- 
hew told me afterward, that I said his Carriage was neither 
becoming a Scholar nor Minister. The Truth is I was sur- 
pris'd to see my self insulted with such extraordinary Fierce- 
ness, by my Pastor, just when I had been vindicating two 
worthy Embassadors of Christ (his own usual Phrase) from 
most villanous Libels. And I dont know any syllable intimat- 
ing that I had done Well. As for the Letter, the Gov" was 
not in humor to trust me about it; because I just then Fil’d 
my Reasons for withdrawing my Vote. Mr. Pemberton speaks 
hard Words, and very reflecting. We went to Dinner, I sat 
next Mr. Pemberton and ask’d him to crave a Blessing; He 
also Return’d Thanks, the President declining it. Mr. Ser- 
geant came into our Company. ‘The President walked on his 
right hand to the Council-chamber; I and Mr. Pemberton 
went next. In the Way Mr. Pemberton charg’d me again, I 
was grievd and said, What in the Street! He answer’d, No 


SEWALL’S DIARY 203 


body hears. But Mr. Sergeant heard so much, that he turn’d 
back to still us. Mr. Pemberton told me that Capt. Martin, 
the Comadore, had abus’d him, yet I took no notice of it: I 
answer’d, you never laid it before me. He said, You knew it. 
I said, I knew it not. (For every Rumor is not ground suffi- 
cient for a Justice of Peace to proceed upon; and Mr. Pem- 
berton never spake word of it to me before). He said Capt. 
Martin call’d him Rascal in the Street, and said had it not 
been for his coat, he would have can’d him. Mr. Pemberton 
said I excluded him, or he was excluded from Dining with the 
Superiour Court by the Invitation of Capt. Martin. I said 
twas with difficulty that his Company was obtain’d at our 
Diner. ‘The matter of Fact was this: Upon Midweek Nov' 
8., as I take it, twas nois’d that General Nicholson was going 
out of Town to Pascataqua, in order to his Voyage home: 
Hereupon the Justices agreed to wait upon his Honor at his 
Lodgings; to take Leave of him if going, to invite him to Diner 
if he staid in Town so long: (The Chief Justice was at New 
London), Sewall, Hathorne, Walley, Corwin went in the 
morning to the House of Mr. John Borland; When the Gen! 
came, and we had Saluted him, and understood his Honor staid 
in Town that day; We invited him to Diner to the Green 
Dragon; and Mr. Myles being there, I invited him; and en- 
quired of the Gen! if there were any we should ask to Dine 
with him? He mention’d Capt. Martin, the Comadore. Ac- 
cordingly we sent, and for Major Handy. When Mr. Pem- 
berton had Pray’d, I desir’d him to Dine with the Court, the 
Gen! was invited. Mr. Pemberton ask’d whether Capt. Mar- 
tin was to be there, I said yes; Then said Mr. Pemberton, you 
must Excuse me! I reply’d, His Invitation was not of my pro- 
posal. And yet this was now thus brought over again: Mr. 
Pemberton said the Council took so little notice of Capt. Mar- 
tin’s Abusing him (though it had been talk’d of in Council) 
that they invited him to their Treat at the Return from Ann- 
apolis Royal. This concerns the whole Council, and therefore 


204. SEWALL’S DIARY 


I have nam’d it last, as in which I am least concern’d. But 
this is to be said for the Council. The Fleet was a chief Mean 
of Taking Port Royal; Capt. Martin was Comadore of that 
Fleet, and therefore could not be separated from the Gen!. A 
personal Resentment of what had pass’d before the going to 
Port-Royal, ought not to make a Balk in a Publick Invitation 
after God’s granting Success; which had been so much and 
Publickly pray’d for; and Thanks to God Return’d. And if 
the Justices had [not?] sent for Capt. Martin, I cant tell what 
could have been made of the Offence. ‘Tis difficult medling 
with Captains of Frigats. Reasons of State require the over- 
looking many grievous Things. ‘The Sons of Zerviah were too 
hard for David, his calling them to Account. He was fain to 
leave Joab to the Reign of Solomon. 

These Things made me pray Earnestly and with great Con- 
cern, that God would vouchsafe to be my Shepherd, and per- 
form for me what is mention’d in the 23. Psalm, that He 
would not leave me behind in my Straglings; but bring me 
safely to his Heavenly Fold. 

In the Afternoon Mr. Pemberton order’d the 5 first verses 
of the 58" Psalm to be sung. I think if I had beer in his place 
and had been kindly and tenderly affectioned, I should not have 
done it at this time. Another Psalm might have suited his Sub- 
ject as well as the 5 verse of this. ‘Tis certain, one may make 
Libels of David’s Psalms; and if a person be abused, there is 
no Remedy: I desire to leave it to God who can and will Judge 
Righteously. 

Dect 12. I went to Mr. Pemberton and Expostulated about 
his ‘Treatment of me. 

Nov? 28. Ask’d him whether the Mathers were not Embas- 
sadors of Christ and therefore ought to be vindicated; I might 
have expected his Escape. As to Capt. Martin, the Comadore, 
when I had related the matter of Fact, he said he knew it not 
before. I visited Madam Pemberton, and gave the Nurse 3°. 


SEWALL’S DIARY 205 


Mid-week, Jan” 31, 1779. Went and heard Mr. Bridge, 
and Dr. Cotton Mather pray and preach, at the said Dr’s 
House. Mr. Bridge’s Text was about God’s lifting up a 
Standard, when Enemy breaks in as a Flood. Dr. Mathers, 
The whole world lyes in Wickedness. Had Cake and Butter 
and Cheese, with good Drinks, before parting. As I went 
home, I heard Col. Vetch was arriv’d from Anapolis. 

Feb’ 1. As I go to Lecture, I wait on Gov" Vetch and con- 
gratulat his Safety; He thanks me for my Respect to him and 
to his Spouse. 

At 3. p.m. The Council meets according to Adjournment. 
Upon Conference with Col. Vetch, the Expedition is set for- 
ward by Water. Mr. Secretary reads a paper given him by 
Col. Vetch, Certifying that the Government of Anapolis 
Royal had not Traded with the Indians as they were aspers’d, 
but with all in a vile maner loading New-Engld with Calum- 
nies; a spirit of Witchcraft, and now 7 fold a Spirit of Lying, 
haters of Monarchy, regretting Her Majesties success in Tak- 
ing Port-Royal. I took it of the Secretary, and read it, and 
mov’d several of the Council that they would speak to it. I 
told them it would otherwise be taken as a tacit License to print 
it. When no body spake, and Col. Vetch was going away, I 
pray’d him to stay a little; and said I fear’d the reading that 
paper without being spoken to, would be taken as a tacit Li- 
censing of it. I was for the Certificat so far as it vindicated 
their innocency; but was against the Reflections on New-Eng- 
land, they would be dishonorable to Nova Scotia, and New- 
England. I was against printing it with them. Col. Vetch 
said, if it could not be printed here, he would have it printed 
elsewhere; Copies of it were sent to England, I said it was 
Raillery unbecoming a Government. When Col. Vetch was 
gon, I pray’d the Gov’ to forbid the printing it unless those 
Reflections were first taken out. ‘The Gov" said, he could not 
hinder it; they might take their own way. And yet own’d twas 
Raillery. I don’t know but Col. Vetch may reckon that he has 


206 SiRVW ACL LAS) Dia Ray 


a tacit License to print the Certificat just now read in Coun- 
cil. I am very free the Substance of the Certificat, relating to 
their own inocency, may be printed: But to print the bulky 
Reflections would be dishonorable to Anapolis, and Boston. 
And I can no way consent to it. I think it should be spoken 
to. 
Febr. 9. Seventh-day, between 11 and 12m. Col. John Fos- 
ter expires. His place at the Council Board and Court will 
hardly be filled up. I have lost a good Left-hand man. The 
Lord save New-England! Now just half the Counsellours 
mention’d in the Charter, are dead; The good Lord prepare the 
rest, and me especially to follow after. 

Now about I dream’d of being at the Comencment and see- 
ing Mr. Leverett in Scarlet. 

Febr. 28. 177. Midweek: ‘This being my Marriage-day, 
and having now liv’d in a married Estate Five and ‘Thirty 
years, notwithstanding my many Sins and Temptations, I 
spent some time in Meditation and Prayer in the Castle-Cham- 
ber. I was much encouraged by reading in Course the 32! 
Psalm at family prayer without any foresight of mine. And 
when I came to pray I was much heartened to ask Forgiveness 
of God for my multiplied Transgressions, seeing He had di- 
rected Peter a sinfull Mortal to forgive to 70. times 7. I hope 
God will forgive and do as the matter may require. 

March, 4. Lord’s Day; To my aprehension God assists my 
Son remarkably in prayer and preaching I hope tis an Answer 
of my prayer last Midweek. Preaches again in the Evening. 

April, 3. I dine with the Court at Pullin’s. Mr. Attor- 
ney treats us at his house with excellent Pipins, Anchovas, 
Olives, Nuts. I said I should be able to make no Judgment 
on the Pipins without a Review, which made the Company 
Laugh. Spake much of Negroes; I mention’d the problem, 
whether should be white after the Resurrection: Mr. Bolt took 
it up as absurd, because the body should be void of all Colour, 


SEWALL’S DIARY 207 


spake as if it should be a Spirit. I objected what Christ said 
to his Disciples after the Resurrection. He said twas not so 
after his Ascension. 

7 18% ‘Third-day, set out for Boston; Baited at Dedham. 
Refresh’d our selv’s at Mr. Belcher’s: Got well home a little 
after Diner time: we recreated our selves with Mr. Watt’s 
Poems, going and coming. Laus Deo Servatori. About 7 or 
8 aclock of the night between the 24 and 34 of October, a 
Dreadful Fire hapens in Boston; broke out in a little House 
belonging to Capt. Ephraim Savage, by reason of the Drunken- 
ness of Moss: Old Meeting House, and Town-House 
burnt. Old Meetinghouse had stood near 70. years. I had a 
house burnt, wherein Mr. Seth Dwight was Tenant, who paid 
me I'wenty pounds per afium. Oct. 3. The Lt. Gov’ Taylor 
arrives. He saw the Fire 20 Leagues off. 

Octob? 11. Fifth-day, Fast. A Collection was made for 
sufferers by the Fire; Two Hundred Sixty odd pounds 
gathered at the South church, the oldest Meetinghouse in 
Town. 

Friday, Febr. 8. A Duel is fought between Lt James Doug- 
las, and Lt James Alexander, near the new Burying place. 

Satterday, Febr. 16, 17114. Mr. Jonathan Belchar comes 
to me with Mr. Bromfield, and tells me the near approach of 
Lt James Alexander’s Death; I think this was after Noon. I 
went to the chief Justice who declar’d his opinion, that twas 
fitter for other Justices to meddle with than the Judges. I 
went to Dr. Clark as the next Justice and a Chirurgeon, whom 
I found indispos’d and keeping house. L* Alexander Douglass, 
the Dueller, lodg’d at Barnsdell’s near Scarlet’s Wharf. I 
call’d again at Mr. Bromfield’s who inform’d me, Alexander, 
aprehensive of death, was just going to receive the Sacrament. 
I went home, (twas now Sun-set) and writ a Letter to Mr. 
Attorney, telling where I had been and what I had heard; and 
desir’d him to take some order about it. About 7 aclock he 





208 OE WAT Le Se IDE AIREY. 


sent for me, I went to the chief Justice, and there sign’d War- 
rants to the sheriff &c., and Mr. Weaver, an Admiralty War- 
rant; Franklin made Constable Oliver his Deputy. Sent Mr. 
Deputy Dyer and him to Barnsdell’s; and order’d him to go to 
Nantasket as soon as the Wether would admit (for the wind 
now was intolerable as to its height and cold). Came home, 
Benj. Larnell lighting me. 

Monday, Febr. 18. ”’I‘was mention’d in Council, that Gov™ 
Vetch might be spoken to to send Douglass from Anapolis 
hither. It was reported he was gon thither in Capt. John Al- 
den. Lt James Alexander dyed, on Satterday night about 10. 
aclock. The Gov'’s Answer was, Let Warrants be first 
granted out; and then 2 or 3 days after, Let a Motion be made 
to Gov? Vetch from the Council-Board. A Warrant was 
drawn by Mr. Secretary to all the sheriffs and Constables in 
the Province, and given to Dept. Dyer. Mr. Joseph Gerrish 
comes to Town; I write to him to invite him to Diner to mor- 
row. A Letter is written to the Gov’ to regulat the Funeral 
of Lt Alexander, and prevent its being Great. 

Sixth-day, March 28. Court met: order’d Oyster-Island 
not to be sold; but the Attorney, Mr. Parker, to represent the 
state of it at the next Term. Upon reading Hittee’s Inden- 
ture (which was now brought), Left her in Prison uncon- 
demned; and order’d Col. Otis her first master, and Major 
Basset, to take Affidavits concerning her Birth. Adjourn’d 
sine die. Left my Statute Book with Capt. James Warren. 
Came homeward; Rain’d hard quickly after setting out, went 
by Mattakeese Meetinghouse, and forded over the North- 
River. My Horse stumbled, in the considerable body of water, 
but I made a shift, by GOD’S Help, to sit him, and he re- 
cover'd and carried me out. Rain’d very hard that went into 
a Barn awhile. Baited at Bairsto’s. Din’d at Cushing’s. 
Dryed my Coat and Hat at both places. By that time got to 
Braintry, the day and I were in a maner spent, and I turn’d 
in to Cousin Quinsey, where I had the pleasure to see GOD in 


SEWAL ES DIARY 209 


his providence shining again upon the persons and Affairs of 
the Family after long distressing Sickness and Losses. Lodg’d 
in the chamber next the Brooke. 

7 day March, 29. Rode home, Mr. Rawson overtook me 
and accompanied me on the Neck; Got well home about Noon; 
found all well. Laus Deo. Mr. Colman, the father, died last 
Thorsday night. 

Midweek, April 9°. Capt. Paxton reviles Mr. Jonathan Bel- 
char upon the Parade, calls him Rascal, many times, strikes 
him with his Cane: Mr. Dudley upon his view fines him 58. 
He carried it insolently, and said, He would doe so again. 
Twas about Noon. 

Sixth-day, April, 11. I saw Six Swallows together flying 
and chipering very rapturously. 

Augt. 24. Son sends Tom with a Letter to acquaint me that 
his daughter Mary died about | or 2 aclock last night; his wife 
sick. p. m. I send the Letter to Mr. Pemberton. Both Mr. 
Bridge and Pemberton pray very Expressly for my Son as 
call’d to the south-church. I goe to the Funeral of Capt. Oli- 
ver’s child. Bearers, Mr. Jn° Walley, Mr. David Jeffries. 
Mr. Pemberton deliver’d me my Son’s Letter at the house of 
Mourning. 

Second-day, Augt. 25. Between Roxbury, and Brooklin I 
met a youth of Newtown, who told me Mr. Hobart dyed about 
Sun-rise this morning. Proceeded and waited on Madam Dud- 
ley in her Charret to Brooklin. So soon as I could get the 
Coffin, I had little Mary nail’d up in it, and brought my dear 
Grand-Child to Town in my son’s Calash, leaving my Horse 
for him. The Rain overtook me near the Governour’s, yet I 
proceeded, and got to my House, just about T'wo a-clock. 
About sun-set, or a little after, little Mary Sewall, born July, 
20, 1711, was born to the Tomb by Mr. William Cooper, and 
Mr. Appleton, Mr. Dan! Oliver’s Aprentice. The Father fol- 
low’d alone, then the Gov" and I. The Grandmothers rode in 
the Governour’s Charret. 


210 SEWALL’S DIARY 


Midweek, Augt. 27. I went to Hog-Island with Latherby 
to see how the Workmen finished the Barn. Saw two Sloops 
go away with Hay; Turn’d down with them against the Wind. 
Visited Dr. Increase Mather. He is touch’d with the Gravel. 
Benj. Larnell kick’d Joshua Gee. 

Octob? 31. Order for Thanksgiving is past. The Secre- 
tary writ Peace; the Gov’ added Happy; which I objected 
against; because we saw but one side, we saw not what the 
French had reserved for themselves. Voted it not. I would 
have had it plentiful /ater Harvest; because the Wheat and 
Rye were much blasted; the Barly much diminished; but I 
prevail’d not. Sister Northend returns. 

Tuesday, Febr. 10 17124. A vehement storm of Snow. Mr. 
Stoddard sent his Coach to fetch me to the Commissioners 
Meeting at his House. When return’d could scarce get in at 
my door for a great Drift of Snow blown up there; were fain 
to Shovel it away first. 

Wednesday, Febr. 11. Mr. Aaron Porter is ordain’d pastor 
of the church at Meadford. Mr. Angier gave the charge; Mr. 
Hancock, the Right Hand of Fellowship. The storm fore- 
going hinder’d my Son from being there. And Mr. Jonathan 
Belchar made a Splendid Treat for Mr. Wainwright, to which 
my Son was invited on Tuesday; were many more people there 
than the Meetinghouse would hold. 

Febr. 12. Sam. comes not to Town as he intended. In the 
Afternoon Devotion informs my wife of his very uncomfortable 
Circumstances, and of the Necessity of fetching him to Bos- 
ton. 

Friday, Febr. 13. Joseph and I ride in Mr. Stoddard’s 
Coach to Brooklin, got thither at Eleven a. m., find Sam abed. 
In a little while got him up, din’d there, came away. I was 
somwhat afraid, by reason his [Joseph’s] Pulse was disorder’d. 
But the Coach being close, Harry drove us home well about 
4. p.m. At Brooklin I saw the Lambs, encourag’d ‘Tom. to 
be faithfull in his Masters business, which he promis’d. ‘Told 


SE WAL EY Siy DIBA RY: 211 


him he could not obey his Master without obedience to his 
Mistress; and vice versa; bid him take that as a Rule. Gave 
him a Two-shilling Bill of Credit. When my daughter alone, 
I ask’d her what might be the cause of my Son’s Indisposition, 
are you so kindly affectioned one towards another as you should 
be? She answer’d, I do my Duty. I said no more. At part- 
ing I pray’d God to be with us going, and with them staying. 
Son gave Hanah a piece of Silver. 

Febr. 17. Great Snow. ‘Tom comes for Meal. I give him 
half a Bushel of pease home with him, of our best. All well at 
Brooklin. I enquired of my daughter, Hanah, and the whole 
family. 

Febr. 19. Lecture-day, son S. goes to Meeting, speaks to 
Mr. Walter. I also speak to him to dine. He could not; but 
said he would call before he went home. When he came he 
discours’d largly with my Son; I also spake to him: His ad- 
vice was, that Ilsly should be put away; some Friends talk to 
them both and so come together again. My Son was very help- 
full to me in copying out Dr. Mather’s Circular Letter. 

Febr. 21. Satterday, Daughter Sewall calls and gives us a 
visit; I went out to carry my Letters to Savil’s, that were to be 
carried by Mr. Crocker to Barnstable. While I was absent, 
My Wife and Daughter Sewall had very sharp discourse; She 
wholly justified her self, and said, if it were not for her, no 
Maid could be able to dwell at their house. At last Daugh- 
ter Sewall burst out with Tears, and call’d for the Calashe. 
My wife relented also, and said she did not design to grieve 
her; Son carried his daughter to the Calash, and desired her to 
send Tom with the Horse for him on Friday. 

Febr. 27. Friday, A Council is held at the Governour’s, 
who is now below Stairs. Saw my Son, but spake not to him. 
When the business of the Council was over, and pipes were 
call’d for, I slipt into Kitchen; but my Son was gon; sat with 
Madam Dudley alone a pretty while; She said nothing to me; 
I gave her my Silk-Hand-kerchief, which I bought last Sat- 


212 SEWALL’S DIARY 


terday for my daughter, but was prevented giving it to her, she 
being just gon before I got home. Yet this occasion brought 
her not to speak; Ask’d kindly after my wife. Went to the 
Gov’ agen, Took leave, came home as went, with Capt. Bel- 
char, Bromfield, Norden. 

March 2. Note. James Peniman was buried last Lord’s- 
day night; Bearers, Mr. Cutler, Creese; Benet, Brisco; Ellis, 
Steward. Mr. Bridge and Wadsworth were there, being I 
supose invited, and to comfort the Relations. He had been 
such a Drunkard and Idler that I went not to the Funeral, 
having no heart to it. My son preaches at Mr. Bridgham’s 
Meeting Lord’s day night. 

Friday, Apr. 24. Mr. Pemberton calls at my house; Hanah 
went to the door, and suposing me at the Townmeeting said 
I was not within; whereas indeed I was, but in the Chamber. 
Mr. Pemberton said his business was with me, and declin’d 
coming in. When I understood it, I went to Mr. Pember- 
ton’s the same morning. He not within, I sat some time with 
Madam Pemberton: Ask’d her what people thought of my 
Son’s Courtship; She spake well of it; Said Mr. Alford had 
done ungentlemanly by her, and she thought at the time of it, 
she would have a better Husband; comended Mrs. Betty. I 
told her I would call again about 3. p. m. I went again, she 
crav’d my pardon, said she had forgot to tell Mr. Pemberton 
what I had said of calling. He was gon out. 

April, 25. Satterday, About 4 p. m. as soon as I could get 
my book finish’d, I went to Mr. Walley’s. Neither of the Sis- 
ters within. At last Mrs. Lydia came in, and sat with me. I 
gave her Mr. Walter of CHRIST, very well bound in Calvs 
Leather, to give Mrs. Betty. I had written her Name in it. 
When had staid about half an hour or little more, I came 
away. 

April, 27. The first Court was open’d in the New Town- 
house. I was present. Mr. Colman pray’d Excellently. It 
was a damp to me that the first thing was done was the call- 


SEWALL’S DIARY 213 


ing out the monstrously profane John Green. p. m. Waited 
on the Court at the Green Dragon, with Capt. Tim®. Clark, 
to inform against Richard Vince, who is more like a wild-Cat 
than a man. From thence went to Dr. Increase Mather. 
Thank’d him for the Perseverance of his Love to my Son 
Joseph: agreed to call a Meeting of the Commissioners at the 
Town House at 4. p. m. next Thorsday. 

Tuesday, April 28. I waited on Mr. Pemberton. Mr. 
Wisewall was there. Mr. Marsh of Braintry came in. Mr. 
Pemberton spake very fiercely against the Gov’ and Council’s 
meddling with suspension of Laws, respecting Church of Eng- 
Iand men not paying Taxes to the dissenting Ministers. Spake 
very fiercely in dislike of the overseers, that nothing had been 
done; would chuse others. I think this was before Mr. Marsh 
came in. At the Gate said what I did twould be reckon’d my 
Son did; intimating as I conceive, twere best for me to lay 
down my Overseers place. Post m went to Roxbury Lecture 
with Mr. Thair and Josiah Oakes. Mr. Walter preach’d 
excellently from Ps. 41. 4. I saw Samuel; It is yet dark 
wether at Brooklin. Came home with Thair and Oakes. Thair 
went off at his Brother’s; Oakes and I visited the Bride Adams, 
they were married last Tuesday morn before Gov’ Saltonstall 
went out of Town. 

May, 27. Din’d at the Green Dragon. Went late to the 
Election. 102 Voters at first: Mr. Addington had all but his 
own, 101. Col. Hutchinson and I had 97. each. But tis to be 
lamented that Maj? Winthrop had but 46. and was left out. 
He was the great Stay and Ornament of the Council, a very 
pious, prudent, Couragious New-England Man. Some spread 
it among the Deputies, that he was out of the province, and not 
like to Return. (Has been absent ever since April, 1712. but 
through Sickness.) Lieut Gov" said he was a Non-Resident. 
Staid the Election; but voted not, said ’twas against his prin- 
ciples; the Councillors ought not to vote. Said of voting by 


214 SEWALL’S DIARY 


papers, It was a Silly way! I took no notice of it. Thus Mr. 
Winthrop is sent into Shade and Retirem’t while I am left in 
the Whirling Dust, and Scorching Sun. 


So falls that stately Cedar! whilest it stood 
It was the truest Glory of the Wood. 


Satterday, June 6. The Rain-water grievously runs into my 
ton Joseph’s Chamber from the Window above. As went out 
to the Barber’s I observ’d the water to run trickling down a 
great pace from the Coving. I went on the Roof, and found 
the Spout next Salter’s stop’d, but could not free it with my 
Stick. Boston went up, and found his pole too big, which I 
warn’d him of before; came down a Spit, and clear’d the 
Leaden-throat, by thrusting out a Trap-Ball that stuck there. 
Thus a small matter greatly incomodes us; and when God 
pleases, tis easily remov’d. The Rain that fell the two Nights 
and Lords-day following was in such Abundance, we had been 
almost Drown’d, if the Spout had not been cleared. 

June, 7. Lord’s Super, I could not discern that Mr. Pem- 
berton pray’d for my son; observ’d not so much as the ordinary 
prayer for him that is to preach in the Afternoon. “The Lord 
Help! 

Tuesday, 77 22. I go to Roxbury, wait on the Gov' with 
the Letter of Mr. Justice Corwin, and Lynde. Gov" tells me 
a sad story of Sam, as if he were disguis’d with Drink in the 
Salt-Marsh; His wife comes in with little Hanah: I sit a little 
while, and go away to Brooklin, find Sam very hard at Work 
mowing up Stalks. 

7°, 23. Sam. comes to our house, goes home late after the 
Rain that Tom might come to the Execution as tis promised 
him. 

Octob". 1. Fifth-day, Dr. C. Mather preaches Mrs. Rock’s 
Funeral Sermon, from PS. 25. 13. His Soul shall dwell at 
ease, Sam was here, I invited him to come to us on the Lords 


SEWALL’S DIARY 215 


Day; The Lords Super being administred at both churches in 
Roxbury, and he under disadvantages to partake. 

Octob’. 4. Mr. Jn° Barnard preaches a Sermon too much 
savoring of Arminianisme. p. m. Son preaches from ps. 37. 37. 
on occasion of Mrs. Rock’s death. Samuel Eliot, son of An- 
drew Eliot, Baptis’d. Sam. here all day. Sup’d here. went 
home about 7. 

Second-day, 8". 5. I goe to Brooklin, meet my daughter 
Sewall going to Roxbury with Hanah, to dine with her Brot 
Winthrop. Sam. and I dined alone. Daughter return’d be- 
fore I came away. I propounded to her that Mr. Walter 
might be desired to come to them and pray with them. She 
seem’d not to like the motion, said she knew not wherefore she 
should be call’d before a Minister! I urg’d him as the fittest 
moderator; the Gov" or I might be thought partial. She 
pleaded her performance of Duty, and how much she had 
born. Mr. Hirst came in and smok’d a pipe and we came 
away together. I gave Sarah a Shilling. Hanah ditto and 
cake, the sick Indian Boy a cake, Tom. a Shilling. 

Got home a little before 7.; visited Mr. Sergeant confin’d 
to his house: was not abroad on the Lords Day. 

8’. 6. Sam. comes to Town on account of his Sick Boy. 

Octob’. 16. 1713. I went to see the portentous Birth; it 
seems to be two fine Girls to whom an unhapy Union has 
been fatal. The Heads and Necks, as low as a Line drawn 
from the Arm-pits, are distinct. A little below the Navel, 
downward again distinct, with distinct Arms and Legs; Four 
of each. I measured across the perfect Union about the Hips 
and found it to hold about eight Inches. Oh the Mercies of 
my Birth, and of the Birth of Mine! Laus Deo! Dr. Cot- 
ton Mather introduc’d me and Mr. John Winthrop to 
this rare and awfull Sight. 

Octob™. 19. Mr. Winslow of Marshfield comes to Town; 
Set out so long before Sun-rise that he was here about 3. p. m. 
and in the Council-Chamber, in his own Hair, 


216 SEWALL US) DEARIX 


Octob". 20. He appears with a Flaxen Wigg, I was griev’d 
to see it, he had so comly a head of black Hair. 

Octob’. 25. In the Night after 12. Susan comes, and 
knocks at our chamber door, said she could not sleep, was 
afraid she should dye. Which amaz’d my wife and me. We 
let her in, blew up the Fire, wrapt her warm, and went to 
bed again. She sat there till near day, and then return’d; and 
was well in the morning. Laus Deo. I was the more startled 
because I had spilt a whole Vinyard Can of water just before 
we went to Bed: and made that Reflection that our Lives 
would shortly be spilt. 

Friday 8’. 30. Sam. and his Wife dine here, go home to- 
gether in the Calash. William IIsly rode and pass’d by them. 
My son warn’d him not to lodge at his house; Daughter, said 
she had as much to doe with the house as he. IIsly lodg’d 
there. Sam. grew so ill on Saturday, that instead of going to 
Roxbury he was fain between Meetings to take his Horse, and 
come hither; to the surprise of his Mother, who was at home. 
Lord save him and us! Mr. Jn° Williams preached for my 
son in the morn, and went at Noon to preach for Mr. Walter. 
About 9. on Satterday night, Mr. Bridge was taken with an- 
other paralytick Fit, was in danger of falling into the fire. 

Nov’. 2. Sam. is somthing better, yet full of pain; He told 
me with Tears that these sorrows (arising from discord be- 
twen him and his wife) would bring him to his Grave. I said 
he must endeavour to be able to say, O Death, where is thy 
sting? O Grave, where is thy victory? He is refresh’d by 
discoursing with Simon Gates of Marlborough, and Amos 
Gates. 

Tuesday, 9". 24. Joseph visits us after his sickness of the 
Measles; dines with us. David brings Susan’s Mother from 
Braintrey to tend her. 

26. Dr. Mather preaches. I could not discern that he re- 
turn’d any Thanks for Joseph’s Recovery, though he knew he 
was at Lecture. Return’d Thanks Expressly for Mr. Bridge. 


SEW AD LY Si DIARY 217 


Mr. Thacher of Milton, Son of Brooklin, and Cousin Quinsey 
din’d with us. 

28. Sam. comes to Town from Brooklin, dines with us, 
comes to keep the Sabbath with us. I visit Mr. Pemberton. 
Very cold day. John Gerrish has the Measles at Mr. Low- 
der’s. 

Dec’. 6. Sam. keeps Sabbath with us. 

Dec’. 6. 1713. Sun is Eclipsed just about the beginning of 
the Fore noon Exercise; when well enter’d many Guns are 
Fired by Capt. Brown Going down to Nantasket. Mr. Holy- 
oke observes the Eclipse in the Town House Turret. Very 
clear day. I saw it plain as I came home at Noon. 

‘Tuesday, Jan. 5, 17134. I go to the Funeral of Capt. 
Benet’s daughter Butler; is said to be the most desirable of his 
daughters, but about 25 or 6. years old. Cousin Moodey 
strikes in, and I go in the middle between him and Joseph S. 
Mr. Sam! Moodey of York lodges here. 

Jan’ 6. I visit Cousin Mrs. Anna Dumer. In the evening, 
Mr. Walter, Cousin Moodey and I had discourse about my son 
at Brooklin, his Circumstances. Yesterday after Mrs. Butler’s 
Funeral, I visited Mr. Pemberton, who has Sore Eyes. 

Fifth-day, Jan’ 7th, Son J. Sewall preaches the Lecture, 
which is the first Sermon he has preached in the old church. 
1 Cor. 6, 19. 20. Was invited, and din’d with the Court at 
Holm’s. Was a very great Fogg all day. Rain’d toward 
night. 

Jan’ 29. Great Storm of Snow began about 3. p. m. yes- 
terday: Last night, about Midnight, was a dreadfull Cry of 
Fire; was stop’d at Mr. Blunt’s Work-house where it begun. 
Laus Deo. ‘This day I sent Joseph my Pole’s Synopsis Criti- 
corum. I have enjoy’d them one and Thirty years; and now 
have the pleasure to bestow them on a worthy Minister, my 
Son. O the patience, Longe Suffering, and Goodness of 
GOD! 

Seventh-Day, Feb’™. 6. I went to the Town-house on the 


218 SEWALL’S DIARY 


occasion of the Queen’s Birthday; Mr. Bromfield and I sat 
a-while in one of the windows, Table being full; afterward 
sat in. <A little before Sun-set I went away. Mr. Eliakim 
Hutchinson seeing me about to rise up, Said we would go and 
see Mr. Sergeant; I went with him. Mr. Sergeant took my 
Hand and held it with great Affection. My neighbour Colson 
knocks at our door about 9. or past to tell of the Disorders at 
the Tavern at the South-end in Mr. Addington’s house, kept 
by John Wallis. He desired me that I would accompany Mr. 
Bromfield and Constable Howell thither. It was 35. Minutes 
past Nine at Night before Mr. Bromfield came; then we went. 
I took Aeneas Salter with me. Found much Company. ‘They 
refus'd to go away. Said were there to drink the Queen’s 
Health, and they had many other Healths to drink. Call’d 
for more Drink: drank to me, I took notice of the Affront to 
them. Said must and would stay upon that Solemn occasion. 
Mr. John Netmaker drank the Queen’s Health to me. I told 
him I drank none; upon that he ceas’d. Mr. Brinley put on 
his Hat to affront me. I made him take it off. I threaten’d 
to send some of them to prison; that did not move them. They 
said they could but pay their Fine, and doing that they might 
stay. I told them if they had not a care, they would be guilty 
of a Riot. Mr. Bromfield spake of raising a number of Men 
to Quell them, and was in some heat, ready to run into Street. 
But I did not like that. Not having Pen and Ink, I went to 
take their Names with my Pensil, and not knowing how to 
Spell their Names, they themselves of their own accord writ 
them. Mr. Netmaker, reproaching the Province, said they 
had not made one good Law. 

At last I address’d my self to Mr. Banister. I told him he 
had been longest an Inhabitant and Freeholder, I expected he 
should set a good Example in departing thence. Upon this he 
invited them to his own House, and away they went; and we, 
after them, went away. ‘The Clock in the room struck a pretty 
while before they departed. I went directly home, and found 


SEWALL’S DIARY 219 


it 25. Minutes past Ten at Night when I entred my own 
House. About 5. in the Morning there was a cry of Fire; 
Bells rung. Son J. Sewall came to our Chamber door and 
acquainted us. But quickly after our rising, the Bells left off 
ringing, and I saw no Light. Mr. Webb’s Malt-house, near 
Mr. Bronsdon’s, was burnt down. Twas a great Mercy that 
the Fire was not spread all over the North-End. Part of the 
house of Mr. Bronsdon, the Landlord, began to burn. 

Monday, Feb". 8. Mr. Bromfield comes to me, and we give 
the Names of the Offenders at John Wallis’s Tavern last Sat- 
terday night, to Henry Howell, Constable, with Direction to 
take the Fines of as many as would pay; and warn them that 
refus'd to pay, to apear before us at 3. p. m. that day. Many 
of them pay’d. The rest appear’d; and Andrew Simpson, En- 
sign, Alexander Gordon, Chirugeon, Francis Brinley, Gent. 
and John Netmaker, Gent., were sentenc’d to pay a Fine of 5° 
each of them, for their Breach of the Law Entituled, An Act 
for the better Observation, and Keeping the Lord’s Day. They 
all Appeal’d, and Mr. Thomas Banister was bound with each 
of them in a Bond of 20° upon Condition that they should 
prosecute their Appeal to effect. 

Capt. John Bromsal, and Mr. Thomas Clark were dis- 
miss’d without being Fined. ‘The first was Master of a Ship 
just ready to sail, Mr. Clark a stranger of New York, who 
had carried it very civilly, Mr. Jekyl’s Brother-in-Law . 

John Netmaker was fin’d 5® for profane cursing; saying to 
Colson, the Constable’s Assistant, God damn ye; because 
the said Colson refus’d to drink the Queen’s Health. This he 
paid presently. Then Mr. Bromfield and I demanded of the 
said Netmaker to become bound in a Bond of Twenty pounds, 
with two Sureties in Ten pounds a-piece, to Answer at the next 
Gen! Session of the Peace for Suffolk, his Contempt of Her 
Majesties Government of this Province and vilifying the same 
at the house of John Wallis, Innholder in Boston, last Satter- 
day night. Mr. Banister declin’d being bound; and none else 





220 SE WAL by S ubtaARy, 


offer’'d (To imbarrass the Affair as I conceiv’d). Upon this 
Mr. Netmaker was dismiss’d, giving his Word to apear on 
Tuesday. at 10. m. that he might have Time to provide Sure- 
Mies. 

Tuesday, March, 9th. Mr. Bromfield and I waited till past 
11. and dismiss’d the Constables Howell and Feno, suposing 
No body would come. Constable met Mr. Netmaker at the 
door, and came back again with him: He came all alone. Mr. 
Bromfield and I spent much time with him to bring him to 
some Acknowledgment of his Error, but all in vain. Offer’d 
not so much as his own Bond: which constrain’d us to Write 
a Mittimus, and send him to Prison. Angry words had pass’d 
between him and Const. Howell; he Threatn’d Const. Howell 
what he would do to him; or his Servants for him. For this 
reason I dismiss’d Constable Howell; sent for Mr. John 
Winchcomb, and gave him the Mittimus, out of respect to 
Mr. Netmaker; and he took it kindly. This about % past 12. 
at Noon by my Clock. Went into Town; Mr. W™ Pain spake 
with me near the Townhouse; express’d himself concern’d that 
Mr. Netmaker was in prison; he would pay his Fine that he 
might be releas’d. I told him there was no Fine. Went on, 
visited Hanah Parkman, saw the place, where the Malt-house 
was burnt down. As I return’d, went to the Funeral of Mrs. 
Green. There, Mr. Secretary (who was a Bearer), Told me, 
a Council was Warn’d to meet after the Funeral. Accord- 
ingly I went. Present, Gov’, Lt Gov'., Winthrop, Elisha Hut- 
chinson, Sewall, Mr. Addington, Townsend, E™ Hutchinson, 
Belchar, Bromfield. It was late and Duskish, and Col. Elisha 
Hutchinson went away before any thing was Voted. Sat 
round a little Fire; I hapen’d to sit next Gen! Nicholson. He 
aply’d himself to me and Mr. Bromfield, ask’d whether did not 
know that he was here with the Broad Seal of England? I 
answer’d, Yes! Ask’d whether did not know that Mr. Net- 
maker was his Secretary? I answer’d, Tis generally so re- 
ceivd, Then with a Roaring Noise the Gen! said, I demand 


SEWALL’S DIARY 221 


JUSTICE against Mr. Sewall and Bromfield for sending my 
Secretary to prison without acquainting me with it! And 
hastily rose up, and went down and walk’d the Exchange, 
where he was so furiously Loud, that the Noise was plainly 
heard in the Council-Chamber, the door being shut. ‘The 
Governour vehemently urg’d the Discharge of Netmaker; 
argued that Gen! Nicholson was as an Embassador; his Ser- 
vant ought to have been delivered to him. I said, Mr. Net- 
maker was upon his Parole from Monday to Tuesday; in 
which time he might have acquainted Gen! Nicholson with his 
Circumstances. The Gov’ said, Mr. Bromfield and I ought 
to have acquainted him our selves. Would have had the Vote 
so Worded. Would have had us that committed Mr. Net- 
maker to have released him. I objected to that; saying, we 
had committed him: but I did not know that we had power 
to release him. “Then the Keeper was sent for with the Mit- 
timus, which Mr. Secretary read by Candle-Light, in these 
words: 


MASSACHUSETTS, 
SUFFOLK Ss. 


Seal. 
Seal. 
To the Keeper of Her Majesties Gaol in Boston, 
Greeting, 

We herewith send you the body of John Netmaker, Gent: 
who being Order’d by our selves, two of Her Majesties Justices for 
Suffolk, to give Bond with Sureties, to appear at the next General 
Sessions of the Peace to be held for the County of Suffolk, to make 
Answer for his Contempt of Her Maj’ Government of this Province, 
and Vilifying the same at the house of John Wallis, Innholder, in 
Boston in the Night Between the Sixth and Seventh of this Instant 
February: Refus’d so to doe; 

You are therefore in Her Majesties Name required to receive the 
said Netmaker, and him safely keep till he be discharged by due 
course of Law. 

Given under our Hands and Seals in Boston, this Ninth day of 


February 1732. Annoque Regn Anne, Reginae Magnae Brittanicae 
&c., Duodecimo, 


SAMUEL SEWALL, 
Epw. BRoMFIELD. 


222 SEWALL’S DIARY 


Upon reading this, Mr. Secretary drew up an Order, im- 
porting that those general Words would not hold him, and 
order’d his Discharge. The Governour Ordered the Keeper to 
discharge Mr. Metmaker, and the Secretary should give him a 
Copy of the Council’s Order. And order’d Mr. Secretary to 
Copy it out, and wait upon Gen! Nicholson with it in the 
Morning. They that voted being hardly drawn to it. Some 
of them, were Lt Gov’, Mr. Addington, Eliakim Hutchinson, 
Penn Townsend, Andrew Belchar; Mr. Winthrop was in the 
Negative; said he understood not how it belong’d to the Coun- 
cil to meddle with it. Sewall and Bromfield were the parties 
complain’d of. If they had withdrawn, there had been no 
Council left; but the Gov’ charg’d that none should withdraw. 
This was pretty hard, seeing a General Council was to meet 
the next day; and the Bond required, was but T’‘wenty pounds 
the principal, and Ten pounds a piece two Sureties. 

June, 1714. Just after I saw Mr. Pemberton, by Mr. Ger- 
rishe’s Shop: I told him the Court was prorogu’d. He and I 
after a little Space walk’d together, he was going, it seems, to 
Madam Saltonstall’s: I went with him having Election-Ser- 
mons in my Pocket. When we came against Mr. Myles’s he 
vehemently upbraided me with the uncivil Treatment he met 
with when he pray’d with the Council; as if were us’d like a 
Boy. They pointed to him. It put him in mind of what Mr. 
Belchar had told him of Hanover, their setting a youth to 
Crave a Blessing. I said We were of another mind or else 
would not take the pains to get the Divines of the Town. No 
body went with him to the door. I said I supos’d twas a meer 
accident. No body asked him whether he were out of breath. 
As to this last it behooved him to have step’d into Mr. Ger- 
rishes Shop, or some other convenient place, till he had taken 
breath. As to the pointing, I aprehend it was thus; Just as he 
came in, there was a great Message from the Deputies; and 
the Lieut. Gov' with his hand directed him to go into the 
Closet till that was over. Mr. Pemberton could not fairly 


SEWALL’S DIARY 228 


complain of this, and not being enquired of whether he were 
out of Breath, at the same time. I am sure I endeavour’d 
with respect to desire Mr. Pemberton to take his Turn with 
the other Ministers. He at last consented. Only as the week 
began with Friday, he desired to be excus’d till the begining of 
the week following, by which means Friday and Satterday 
were suplied by my Son out of his Turn. And then the next 
week, one morning, Gov’ Saltonstall was with Mr. Pember- 
ton; and he declined coming upon that score and sent the Mes- 
senger to my Son. Altho®, Mr. Pemberton had been fill’d 
with G* Saltonstall’s company before. 

July, 19. Began to rain about 11. at night; held all night, 
and this morning, Laus Deo. When it held up, I went to Mr. 
Pemberton’s, desired him to come and pray with my Family 
before he went; he said he had a great deal of Business; yet I 
had some expectation of his coming, and forbore to ask my son 
to pray that might the more reserve our selves for him. He 
came not. In the Afternoon I went to have accompanied the 
Gentlemen to the Sloop, but they were gon a little before, be- 
fore 4 o’clock. 

July, 28. 1714. According to my Promise, I carried my 
Daughter Hanah to Meadford to visit Cousin Porter lyeing 
in; In her Mother’s Name she presented her Cousin with a 
red Coat for her little Aaron, blew facing for the sleeves, Ga- 
loon. Cost about 128. 24. I carried her 3. oranges. Gave the 
Nurse 2°; maid 18 Hanah gave the Nurse 18; got thither about 
1. Over the Ferry before dark: 5* for the Calash. 

7", 26. My son of Brooklin, who came hither on Tuesday, 
by reason of his Indisposition, goes not abroad. David fetched 
him in a Coach. 

Midweek, Dec’. 22. My Son Joseph and I visited my Son 
at Brooklin, sat with my Daughter in the chamber some con- 
siderable time, Drank Cider, eat Apples. Sarah Cumin sat in 
the same Room on the Bed with her sore Leg. Daughter said 
nothing to us of her Greivances, nor we to her. Mr. Josiah 


a ee ee ee 


224 SEWALL’S DIARY 


Winchester, and Aspinwall were below with my Son upon 
Business. 

Dec’ 23. Dr. C. Mather preaches excellently from Ps. 37. 
Trust in the Lord &c. only spake of the Sun being in the 
centre of our System. I think it inconvenient to assert such 
Problems. 

Dec’. 27. Very pleasant wether. My Son tells me that 
‘Thomas Sewall went to the Church of England last Satter- 
day: He expostulated with him about it. 

Tuesday, February 1, 17144. As I was busy in signing Bills, 
Mr. Bromfield came to me and desired me to go to the Major 
Gen! at Ten a-clock; they had some discourse yesterday at the 
Sessions, Several would be there. I got thither about 11., was 
the first and were but 4. in all, as I remember; Sewall, E™ 
Hutchinson, Jos. Lynde Mr. Bromfield. Agreed to call as 
many as we could together at the Council-Chamber at 3. p. m. 
There met 12. viz. Mr. Winthrop, Tailer, Elisha Hutchinson, 
Sewall, Jos. Lynde, E™ Hutchinson, Bromfield, Winslow, 
Clark, Davenport, Hutchinson Thomas, Mr. Secretary. Col. 
Townsend was at Roxbury, to hear his son That preaches. Col. 
Phillips came not over; Mr. Comissary was indispos’d by the 
Gout. Col. Lynde sent his son Phillips with the Letters; we 
had Spoken of another. Mr. Bromfield had spoken to Flag to 
warn them. Lt Gov’, as I hear, enquir’d what the Major Gen! 
had to do to warn a Council? When were together in the 
Closet, I mollified a little by saying we were not a Council, 
but some Gentlemen of the Council met together upon an ex- 
traordinary occasion, which Mr. Tailor took up with, placidly; 
After a pretty deal of Talk, I motion’d that we might send to 
the Governour to enquire whether He had received any Or- 
ders; which was readily agreed to. At last, when I could shift 
it no longer, Sewall, Jo. Lynde, Davenport, Tho. Hutchin- 
son went into the said Hutchinson’s Coach. Got thither a 
little after Five, only the Governour’s Lady was there; Mr. 
W™ Dudley received us, and call’d the Gov’. After a-while I 


SE WALL! SYDbARY, Zee 


rose up, and began to do the Message, Gov’ would have me 
sit down. ‘The Message was this; May it please your Excel- 
lency, whereas the Six Months given by the Parliament of 
Great Britain, for continuing persons in their Civil and Mili- 
tary Offices; do expire this day: These are humbly to enquire 
whether your Excellency has received Orders from our Sov- 
eraign Lord King George, enabling you to sustain the place of 
Governour of this Province longer? If you have receiv’d no 
such Orders, we are of opinion that Authority is devolv’d upon 
His Maj® Council, by the direction of our charter; and that 
we are oblig’d in obedience thereunto, and for the welfare of 
His Majesties Subjects here, to exert our selvs accordingly. 

We humbly thank your Excellency for your good Services 
done this people which are many; and for your Favour to our 
selves in particular, and take leave to subscribe our selves your 
Excellency’s most humble and faithfull Servants. 

I intended it as a Letter: But they would have it by word 
of Mouth. So I shew’d not the paper. “The Governour’s 
Answer was, I have received no Orders: and express’d an 
Aversion to enter into discourse. I said, If was out of the 
Province, this much more. Gov" said that was a Jest; might 
be out of the Province at a great distance, at Virginia, and yet 
give Orders in writing. “Iwas more to be at Cascobay, than 
at New Hampshire. Drank to me, saying, Judge Sewall. 
’*T was Candlelight, went to the door and crav’d Excuse for not 
going to the Gate. And sent no body with us. 

Gov' said there were Thirty Canada Indians at Piscataqua, 
he was listening after it. 

When return’d, found our Company Waiting for us. When 
we had related the Governour’s Answer, and they perceived by 
his declining to argue the matter, he design’d to hold his place, 
it put the Gentlemen to it. Col. Hutchinson said, There must 
be a Council Call’d, all seem’d to be of that mind; Mr. Win- 
throp would have had the Secretary write Letters; but he said, 
*Twas no Council, he could not doe it. I said Let us write 


226 SOR WAL) Dc Se wei Rev 


and all subscribe. Mr. Winthrop was so knockt that he said 
it could not be done, if the Secretary declin’d. The Lt Gov‘ 
and Secretary left us. At last resolv’d to Write, and writ Five 
Letters; To Situate, Marble-head, Salem, Ipswich, Newbury. 
Gave the Northern Letters to Col. Lynde to send from 
Charlestown by an Express. Gave Capt. Cushin’s to a Marsh- 
field man whom Col. Winslow directed us to; he to pay him 
for how much he went out of his way. ‘Time fix’d in the Let- 
ter sign’d by Ten, was two a-clock p. m. Febr. 3. 

Thorsday, Feb’. 3. Very great Congregation; Dr. Mather 
prays for them that had the Administration of the Govern- 
ment; mentions neither Gov’ nor Lieut. Gov’. Lt Gov" was 
present. 

Thorsday, Feb™ 3. p. m. The Councillors met, whose 
Names are to the Proclamation. Had long debate, drew up 
votes to state the Question till I was weary. At last voted the 
Devolution; only 2 or 3 that did not vote. Then ordered 4. 
to acquaint the Gov" what was done; viz, Elisha Hutchinson 
esqr. Eliakim Hutchinson esqr. Penn ’ownsend Esqr. and 
Josiah Winslow esqr. They went though the night was 
pretty well enter’d. Many of us stayed till they return’d: 
(sov" said was not dead, nor out of the province. Adjourned 
to the morning. 

Friday, Febr. 4. Drew up a Proclamation; at my going to 
Diner Col Hutchinson desired me to draw something, which I 
did, and ’twas agreed to with very little alteration. 

Note. I had said King William and Queen Mary of Blessed 
Memory, I pleaded when spoken to, They were our Founders. 
Lt Gov" spake hard against it, unless the same was said for 
Queen Anne, so twas struck out. 

Mr. Secretary drew that in the English Letter: Mr. Sec- 
retary first drew, til] His Majesties Orders; which Mr. B. 
Lynde and I opos’d, as that which bound up our hands, from 
doing anything: so twas struck out. Publish’d it by Beat of 
Drum. Paper was sullied with the Rain. Mr. Hiller read it, 


SEWALL’S DIARY 227 


out of the Council-Chamber Gallery; Col. Checkley, Major 
Fitch, Capt. Abijah Savage &c. present. Dr. Cotton Mather 
could not be found, Sent for Mr. Pemberton, who was at 
Capt. Winslow’s, and he pray’d with us. I should have noted, 
that Mr. Tailer Contested the precedency with Mr. Win- 
throp, seeing he had had the Honor to sit at the Board as Lieut 
Gov’. and that the order of privy seal, a Copy of which he 
produc’d, was Dead. But the Council carried it for Mr. Win- 
throp nemine Contradicente. 

Febr. 6. No Gov’ nor Lt Gov™ mentioned in our publick 
prayers. 

Febr. 9. Council; Col. Phillips, and Capt. Norden take 
their Oaths, to the Devolution Government. I told Col. 
Phillips, we wanted him last week: He said his heart was with 
us; but he was not well. 

Febr. 14. I wait on Dr. Incr. Mather to have a Comis- 
sioners Meeting appointed to morrow, at 3 aclock. But when 
I came to Dr. C. Mather, he said should be employ’d in the 
Afternoon; so appointed it in the Morning: Gave Flagg the 
List to warn, because Maxwell was Cast out of the Church 
yesterday, and is superanuated. 

In the Afternoon, Col. Townsend, Mr. Bromfield, Mr. Ad- 
dington, Davenport and I visited the Governour, who Treated 
us with good Drink and Apples. No body went with us to the 
Gate. Gov’. Hunter’s Proclamation comes to Town dated 
Jan’. 29. ordering those of pernicious principles to be apre- 
hended and punished, who assert that Commissions are void 
at the end of the Six Moneths. 

18. Dr. Cotton Mather, Mr. Pemberton, Colman, come 
into Council and intimat what was discours’d last night at Mr. 
Winthrop’s. Council order me and Mr. B. Lynde to give their 
Answer, viz, That ’tis agreeable to them, and they wish it may 
be gone forward with. We went imediately but can’t find 
them, went to Mr. Pemberton’s, Colman’s. At last as were 
going to Dr. Mather’s, Mr. Lynde call’d at his Brother’s and 


228 VERW A LI SD Liao 


found the Dr. there. We went in, drank Tea, after we had 
done our Message. A comission was drawn and sign’d for 
Mr. W™ Dudley as Sheriff; he was sent for, to offer it to him, 
He said he had one already from the Gov" and Council and 
saw no reason to take another, with a Little seeming Banter 
he said his had a Seal, This had none. 

Monday, Febr. 21. Son Sewall intended to go home on the 
Horse Tom. brought, sent some of his Linen by him: but 
when I came to read his wive’s Letter to me, his Mother was 
vehemently against his going: and I was for considering. I 
took the Horse and rode to Tim® Harris of Brooklin. Staid 
there so long that twas almost dark before I got to Roxbury 
Meting house, yet call’d and saw Mrs. Mary Mighell. Vis- 
ited Mr. Walter, staid long with him, read my daughters Let- 
ters to her Husband and me: yet he still advis’d to his going 
home. Went home in the dark between 7 and 8. My Wife 
can’t yet agree to my Son’s going home. 

Midweek, March, 2. Mr. Secretary offers a Draught for 
a Fast. ‘The President persuaded him to strike out words 
about Establishment of the Government. Mr. Tailer pro- 
cured to have the Prince particularly mention’d. I prevail’d 
to have Rain Specially inserted, and gave the Words, which I 
prepar’d at Noon; carried it to the Press. 

Midweek, March, 16. Lt Gov" comes to me in the morn- 
ing, shews me Mr. Dudley’s case truly stated; "twas laid at 
his Steps. Councillors were much surpris’d: p. m. sent for the 
Printers: before had done examining them, I went away to the 
Funeral of my Grandson, Billy Hirst, after I had acquainted 
the President. 

March, 20. Lt Gov". comes to my house, shews me the 
printed Copy from the London Gazett in Gov? Hunter’s hand 
at New-York. It seems Mr. Paul Dudley bestirr’d himself to 
have his Father pray’d for as Gov", and that the Order for the 
Fast might not be Read. Mr. Pemberton Spake to me as went 
by the foreseat in the morning. I Spake against it as I could 


SEWALL’S DIARY 229 


so on a sudden surprise, mention’d the Exception, or provision 
be made. Mr. Sewall pray’d as formerly. Mr. Pemberton 
ask’d if I had read it, I said yes: Said he should have seen it! 
At Noon I carried it to him borrowed of Mr. Newton: He 
had it of Mr. Cambbell before, was reading it; Said he was 
amaz'd I should speak as I did; twas as far from it as East 
from West: New-England, he fear’d, would pay dear for being 
Fond of Government. I say’d unless he knew those that were 
Fond of Government he did ill so to Censure. Said I came 
only to give him a sight of the Proclamation, he might use his 
Freedom. He thank’d me and I went away. 

P.m. Mr. Pemberton acquainted the Congregation that he 
had received an Order for a Fast from Civil Authority, he had 
it not with him, Spake of reading it next Lord’s Day. He 
never said a word that I know of, though the President and 
Three other of the Council were of his Church, and before 
him: he saw not fit to advise with them. Pray’d for those 
that were or might be called to the Government. A little be- 
fore night Mr. Paul Dudley, and Mr. W™ Dumer come to 
my house; call to Speak with me. Mr. Dudley acquaints me 
that the Gov" intended to be here in Town about Eleven 
a-clock to publish the proclamation, that I might be there; said 
would goe to every one of the Council. I said, but is this suf- 
ficient, meaning the Copy. His eyes Sparkled, Said he had no 
orders to dispute, there had been great Friendship between 
him and me. I said I had done nothing to forfeit it. As'‘was 
going out said his Father would come to Town with two 
Troops of Horse. 

Monday, March, 21. Gov" comes to Town with Four 
Troops in stead of two. “Twelve of the Council were there 
at the proclamation. I was not there, I used to be with Mr. 
Addington; and was griev’d at the forbidding to read the Fast; 
i.e. Mr. P. Dudley writ to the Ministers to pray for his father, 
and not to read the Order for the Fast. I knew nothing of 
the Fast, till Mr. Pemberton declin’d reading it. Dr. Mather, 


230 SEWALL’S DIARY 


Mr. Bridge, Mr. Webb read it; Mr. Pemberton and Colman 
did not. Dr. C. Mather said it was sign’d by the hon’ble Wait 
Winthrop esqr. the president of the Council and 17. more of 
the council, and Countersign’d &c. 

Friday, March, 25. Mr. B. Lynde and I take the Hackney 
coach and wait on the Gov’. I wish his Excellency good suc- 
cess in his Return to the exercise of his Government; ask’d if 
had any Service to Plimouth; entertain’d us very pleasantly, 
came with us to the Gate. 

April, 21. News comes that Col. Burgess is to be our Gov- 
ernour. Arriv’d just before Lecture, which is Mr. J. Sewall’s. 
Sarah Cumins was Married this day; This News will damp 
my daughter of Brooklin her Triumph. 

July, 6. This day it is Fifty four years Since I first was 
brought ashoar to Boston near where Scarlet’s wharf now is, 
July, 6, 1661, Lord’s Day. ‘The Lord help me to Redeem the 
Time which passes so swiftly. I was then a poor little School- 
boy of Nine years and 14 old. 

Monday, Aug*t. 8. Set out at 11. at night on Horseback 
with Tho. Wallis to inspect the order of the Town. 

Constable Eady, Mr. Allen, Salter, Herishor Simson, 
Howel, Mr. John Marion. Dissipated the players at Nine 
Pins at Mount-Whoredom. 

Benjamin Davis, Chairmaker, and Jacob Hasy were two of 
them. Reproved Thomas Messenger for entertaining them. 

As came home between 2 and three took up Peter Griffis the 
notorious Burglarer, and comitted him to Prison. Generally, 
the Town was peaceable and in good order. 

Lord’s Day, Jan’ 15, 1715%. An Extraordinary Cold 
Storm of Wind and Snow. Blows much worse as coming 
home at Noon, and so holds on. Bread was frozen at the 
Lord’s ‘Table: Mr. Pemberton administered. Came not out 
to the Afternoon Exercise. “Though twas so Cold, yet John 
Tuckerman was baptised. At six a-clock my ink freezes so that 


SWAT 169, GD) AR Y: 231 


I can hardly write by a good fire in my Wive’s Chamber. Yet 
was very Comfortable at Meeting. Laus Deo. 

Second day, Jan’. 16. About Noon my Wife is taken Ex- 
tream ill, Overcome I supose with the Cold. Vomits, shakes; 
so that I fear’d a Fever. She was aprehensive of Death; had 
a very bad night. This was very distressing to me. 

17. p.m. Joseph prays with her Excellently. Has a much 
better night. “Though the Emetick Physick was very tedious 
in the Operation; yet I hope it had a good Effect. Laus Deo. 
Had both Mr. Oakes and Cutler with her. David Sinclar’s 
Wife Nurses her, Watches [Watchers], Lydia Avery, Mrs. 
Kay. 

Febr. 15. Visit daughter Hirst, tell her her Mother has en- 
ter’d the 59% year of her Age; gave each of the children 28 
each and to my daughter an Angel, her Salary as Treasurer. 
Went thence to the Burying of David Sinclar’s daughter; Mr. 
Wadsworth and I went together. To the Meeting at Thorn- 
ton’s. 

June, 20. I went over to Charlestown in the morn, and 
drave a Pin in Charlestown Meetinghouse, in the Corner-post 
next Mr. Bradstreet’s; gave an Angel. I sat in the nearest 
Shop, and saw them raise the 34 post towards the Ferry from 
the Corner-post. Gave me a Cool Tankard. Gave Mr. 
Graves one of my Son’s Books. Got to the Council Chamber 
before Ten. 

I essay’d June, 22, to prevent Indians and Negros being 
Rated with Horses and Hogs; but could not prevail. Col. 
Thaxter brought it back, and gave as a reason of the Non- 
agreement, They were just going to make a New Valuation. 

June, 30. 1716. Visited my Daughter Hirst when I came 
home; I fear her stay with us is very short: the Good Lord 
undertake for her and us! 

July, 10. Son Sewall prays in the Counting Room. After- 
wards Mr. Colman prays there. “Then I go to Mr. Pember- 
ton to ask his Prayers. My wife goes home in the Coach after 





rach SEWALL’S DIARY 


Nine; was willing that I should stay all night. When I went 
into my daughter’s Chamber, she lay upon her Left side next 
the Pallat Bed, I went to her there. She complain’d of Cold, 
and call’d for a Gown to be laid on her, and warm Linen 
Cloaths to her Hands. I went to the other side again. Not 
long after she desired to be turn’d on her right Side. I ask’d 
her whether her pain took her Right Arm that Caus’d her to 
turn: She said No, all was quiet; but she was weary with lying 
on that Side. The Watcher, Mrs. Welsteed, and the Nurse 
had much adoe to turn her; at last my daughter was satisfied: 
but begun to be uneasy; yet call’d for something to drink; 
which she had much adoe to take though given her in a Spoon. 
I said, when my flesh and my heart faileth me, God is the 
strength of my heart and my portion for ever. Said, I am just 
a-going, Call Mr. Hirst. She Moan’d lower and lower till she 
dyed, about Midnight. 

I lay in Mr. Hirst’s Bed, that I might not disturb my family 
at home. ‘Thus have I parted with a very desirable Child not 
full Thirty five years old. She liv’d desir’d and died La- 
mented. “The Lord fit me to follow, and help me to prepare 
my wife and Children for a dying hour. 

Oct’. 16. p. m. Went a foot to Roxbury. Gov" Dudley 
was gon to his Mill. Staid till he came home. I acquainted 
him what my Business was; He and Madam Dudley both, 
reckon’d up the Offenses of my Son; and He the Vertues of 
his Daughter. And alone, mention’d to me the hainous faults 
of my wife, who the very first word ask’d my daughter why 
she married my Son except she lov’d him? I saw no possibility 
of my Son’s return; and therefore asked, that he would make 
some Proposals, and so left it. Madam Dudley had given me 
Beer as I chose; G: Dudley would have me drink a Glass of 
very good Wine; and made a faint of having the Horses put 
in, to draw me; but with all said how many hundred times 
he had walked over the Neck. I told him I should have a 
pleasant journey; and so it prov’d; for coming over with Mrs. 


SEWALL’S DIARY 223 


Pierpoint, whose maiden name was Gore, had diverting dis- 
course all the way. Met Mr. Walter in his Calash with his 
wife returning home, were very glad to see one another, he 
stopping his Calash. *Iwas quite night before we got to our 
house. 

Dec’. 20. Mr. Pemberton preaches Excellently from Psal. 
24. 7. Lift up. 934 Psalm sung: was but a thin Meeting by 
reason of the Snow: was pity. Dine with Mr. Stoddard, Gov’, 
Lt Gov'., Mr. Acmooty, Mr. Gray, Mr. Anthony Stoddard, 
Mr. David Stoddard, Mr. Legg there. Mr. Cooper was 
Chaplain. Mr. Acmooty read a Letter to him Bantering Mat- 
rimony; mention’d the inconvenience that the body might not 
be uncircumscrib’d; I disliking the Theam, said did you read 
uncircumscrib’d or uncircumcis’d. He said uncircumscrib’d. I 
think this a little check’d the Career of his Eleuthera. From 
thence went to the Funeral of Mrs. Katherine Mather, a ver- 
tuous, pious Gentlewoman. Was a great Funeral notwith- 
standing the Snow under foot, and keen Aer. When came 
home was told that Mrs. Sewall of Brooklin was brought to 
bed of a Son last night. 

July, 3. 1717. Last night my wife was taken very sick, This 
extraordinary Pain and Fainting was of long Continuance, 
whereby I was oblig’d to abide at home and not go to the Com- 
mencement. ‘This is the Second year of my Absence from that 
Solemnity. Great Plenty of Rain quickly after the Fast which 
was July 11%. Mr. Mayhew preaches at Roxbury. 

29. 5. Mr. Colman preaches Excellently from 119. 32. Son, 
the Minister, dines with us, his Wife being at Brooklin. Mr. 
Sheaf and I follow’d next after the Relations of Joshua Cor- 
nish to his Funeral. Note, As I came out of the Meeting- 
house, Mr. Eliot’s youth told me Gov" Dudley would speak 
with me at Mr. Attorney’s: I said, I think it will be best after 
Dinner; and went accordingly, after a little Waiting on some 
Probat business, which I thought not of Gov’ Dudley men- 
tion’d Christ’s pardoning Mary Magdalen; and God hates put- 


234. SEWALL’S DIARY 


ting away; but did not insert sine causa, as Pareus notes. I 
said my Son had all along insisted that Caution should be 
given, that the infant lately born should not be chargeable to 
his Estate. Gov™ Dudley no ways came into it; but said ’twas 
best as ’twas, No body knew whose twas. I said I hoped to 
speak with Mr. P. Dudley in the Circuit. As Gov" Dudley 
went along, took little Hanah into his Chariot, and carried her 
home without any fore-warning. 

8". 15. My Wife got some Relapse by a new Cold and 
grew very bad; Sent for Mr. Oakes, and he sat up with me all 
night. 

16. The Distemper increases; yet my Wife speaks to me to 
goe to Bed. 

17. Thursday, I asked my wife whether twere best for me 
to go to Lecture: She said, I can’t tell; so I staid at home. put 
up a Note. It being my Son’s Lecture, and I absent, twas 
taken much notice of. Major Gen! Winthrop and his Lady 
visit us. I thank her that she would visit my poor Wife. 

Friday, 8". 18. My wife grows worse and exceedingly Rest- 
less. Pray’d God to look upon her. Ask’d not after my going 
to bed. Had the advice of Mr. Williams and Dr. Cutler. 

7 day, 8". 19. Call’d Dr. C. Mather to pray, which he did 
excellently in the Dining Room, having Suggested good 
Thoughts to my wife before he went down. After, Mr. Wads 
worth pray’d in the Chamber when ’twas supos’d my wife took 
little notice. About a quarter of an hour past four, my dear 
Wife expired in the Afternoon, whereby the Chamber was 
fill’d with a Flood of Tears. God is teaching me a new Les- 
son; to live a Widower’s Life. Lord help me to Learn; and 
be a Sun and Shield to me, now so much of my Comfort and 
Defense are taken away. 

8". 20. I goe to the publick Worship forenoon and After- 
noon. My Son has much adoe to read the Note I put up, be- 
ing overwhelm’d with tears. 


SEWALL’S DIARY ans 


8'. 21. Monday, My dear wife is embowelled and put in a 
Cere-Cloth, the Weather being more than ordinarily hot. 

Midweek, 8". 23. My dear Wife is inter’d. Bearers, Lt 
Gov? Dumer, Maj’. Gen! Winthrop; Col. Elisha Hutchinson, 
Col. Townsend; Andrew Belcher esqr and Simeon Stoddard 
esqr. I intended Col. Taylor for a Bearer, but he was from 
home. Had very Comfortable weather. Bro™ Gerrish pray’d 
with us when return’d from the Tomb; I went into it. Gov" 
had a Scarf and Ring, and the Bearers, Gov’ Dudley, Brother 
Sewall, Hirst, Gerrish. Was very destitute for want of the 
help of Son Hirst, and Cousin Jane Green. This was the first 
day of the Gen! Court. Gave the Deputies Books. Allen’s 
Alarm. They sent Mr. Isa. Tay and Capt. Wadsworth to me 
to Thank me. 

Nov’. 7. 5. Last night died the Excellent Waitstill [Wait 
Still] Winthrop esqr., for Parentage, Piety, Prudence, Phil- 
osophy, Love to New England Ways and people very Eminent. 
His Son not come, though sent for. Dr. Cutler, a very useful 
physician, dyes now, and my amiable Tenant Deacon Thomas 
Hubbart; Help Lord! 

Dec’. 1. Madam Winthrop comes not to Meeting in the 
Afternoon. I enquire of Mr. Winthrop. He saith She was 
not well at Noon: but was better. 

Dec’. 2. Serene and Cold. Dr. Cotton Mather dines with 
us. I visit Madam Winthrop at her own House; Tell her of 
my sending Hanah to Salem tomorrow; ask her Advice as to 
selling Mr. Hirst’s Goods: She advises to sell all but plate and 
Linen. I ask her to give and take Condolence. She thanks 
me for my Kindness; I tell her she is before-hand with me. 
When I came away I pray’d God to dwell with her, Counsel 
and Comfort her. She desired my Prayers. Goe to Mr. 
Hirst’s and there meet with Mr. Oliver. 

Tuesday, Dec’. 3. Serene pleasant Wether. I goe and has- 
ten Nathan! Green away with Hannah Hirst in the Coach 
about 10.m. Visit Mr. Secretary Willard, who came to Town 


236 SEWALL’S DIARY 


last night from Cape-Anne, where he arriv’d on the Lord’s 
Day, 7. Weeks from the Downs. Go to Mrs. Turin’s; only 
her daughter at home, I speak to her earnestly, to warn her 
Mother and Aunts, that of necessity they must now take up 
their Mortgage: She promis’d to do it, and shew’d her Inclin- 
ation. P.m. I go to the Funeral of Mr. Sam! Bridge. Col. 
‘Townsend was one of the Bearers: Six Councillors follow’d 
the Relations, Sewall, E™ Hutchinson; Bromfield, Cooke; Tho. 
Hutchinson, Col. Winthrop. ‘The Aer was grown very Cold, 
and snow’d before we got to the Grave. As came back, visited 
Mr. J. Sewall, Mr. Abiel Walley was with him, with whom 
he had much pleasant Discourse. Then went up to my daugh- 
ter, and gave her my Wive’s Wedding Ring, saying I hoped 
she would wear it with the same Nobility as she did who was 
the first owner of it. While her Husband and I were fitting 
part of his Sermon for the Press, she came in and gave us ex- 
cellent Sack-posset. I told her, the Ring I had given her was 
her Mother’s Wedding Ring; and this entertainment Savour’d 
of a Wedding; Went home in the Rain. 

Monday, Xr. 9° Do a great Mornings work in the office 
of Probate. Am much refreshed with Mr. Sol. Stoddard’s 
Letter of Condolence, which is excellent. I soked it in Tears 
at reading. Sent to enquire of Col. Hutchinson, who grows 
worse. Hear of Mr. Watt’s death at Arrowsick, a great Loss 
to that Infant Plantation. I take Mr. Stoddard’s Letter to 
be an Answer to my Prayer for God’s gracious looking upon 
me. Laus Deo. 

January 1, 171%. Wednesday. Privat Meeting at our 
House: read Mr. Scudder’s Sermon about Hearing the Rod. 
Sung Clauses out of the 143 Psalm. Joseph Pray’d last. Had 
with Joseph read this Sermon before in the Castle Chamber, 
Dec’. 30. The widow Tilly was not here, but sent to invite 
the Meeting. 

Febr. 3. 2. I sent Madam Winthrop, Smoking Flax In- 


SEWALL’S DIARY 227 


flamed, the Jewish Children of Berlin, and my small vial of 
Tears, by Mr. Gerrish with my Service: She thanks me, and 
returns her Service to me. 

Feb’. 6. This morning wandering in my mind whether to 
live a Single or a Married Life; I had a sweet and very affec- 
tionat Meditation Concerning the Lord Jesus; Nothing was to 
be objected against his Person, Parentage, Relations, Estate, 
House, Home! Why did I not resolutely, presently close with 
Him! And I cry’d mightily to God that He would help me 
so to doe! 

Feb. 19. Midweek, Mr. Boydell comes to me, and says the 
Gov’ would speak with me at 11.; would send his Chariot; 
which was done, and I went. His Excellency shew’d me 
Capt. Arthur Savage’s Petition to stop the Bills of Cost. I 
prayd Mr. Boydell might write me a copy; spoke once or 
twice: but his Excel’y declin’d it, and would give me the 
Petition itself. I said I was to Tax the Bills in Course, it 
being the Judgment of the Court. Gov" sent his Chariot with 
me home agen. Went after and paid Mr. Willoughby £50. 
Mrs. Willoughby seem’d to hint persons had need be ware 
how they married again. I said, (to humour it), They that 
had been at Sea should be carefull how they put to Sea again, 
especially in winter time; Meaning of Old Age. Rains, I 
think, all day long. 

Tuesday, Feb. 25. Went to Roxbury to speak to Mr. 
Walter about my eldest Son. He advises to his going home 
to his wife. Went first to Jn° Ruggles, lyeing Sick; and 
took his Oath to Jn° Gore’s Acquittance; had not time to 
visit the widow Ruggles, it being near night. Mr. Walter 
says she is a very good woman. Says Madam Winthrop gave 
him Mr. Eyre’s Suit of black Cloth which fitted him well; 
now wore the silver Shoe-buckles, Gov™ Dudley had laid her 
out for me: Or they had laid one out for me: and Govt 
Dudley told him ’twas Madam Winthrop. I told him had 
been there but thrice, and twice upon Business: He said, 


238 SEWALL’S DIARY 


Cave Tertium. When came home gave Mrs. Hornbuckle Dr. 
Mather’s four Sermons, one about believers being Married to 
Christ. Her Son and daughter were gon; but I gave her the 
Sermons for her Son, having written his Name in the book. 
Her Maiden Name was Thorowgood. 

Feb. 27. I told Mr. White Next Sabbath was in a Spring 
Moneth, he must then set the Tune. I set now Litchfield 
Tune to a good Key. 

Feb. 28. I told Mr. Nathan Williams My voice was much 
Enfeebled; He said twas apparently so. I bid him tell Mr. 
White of it. p.m. My Son Sam Sewall and his Wife Sign 
and Seal the Writings in order to my Son’s going home. Gov‘ 
Dudley and I Witnesses, Mr. Sam. Lynde took the Acknowl- 
edgment. I drank to my Daughter in a Glass of Canary. Gov" 
Dudley took me into the Old Hall and gave me £100. in 
Three-pound Bills of Credit, new ones, for my Son; told me 
on Monday, he would perform all that he had promised to 
Mr. Walter. Sam agreed to go home next Monday, his wife 
sending the Horse for him. Joseph pray’d with his Bro™ and 
me. Note. This was my Wedding Day. The Lord succeed 
and turn to good what we have been doing. 

March, 10. In the afternoon, though ’twas a very cold day, 
I carried Madam Usher her Letter, delivered it to her with 
my own hand. I was held below Stairs where a Fire was 
made. In Madam Usher’s absence Madam Henchman took 
occasion highly to comend Madam Winthrop, the Major 
General’s Widow. | 

March, 14. Deacon Marion comes to me, sits with me a 
great while in the evening; after a great deal of Discourse 
about his Courtship—He told [me] the Olivers said they 
wish’d I would Court their Aunt. I said little, but said twas 
not five Moneths since I buried my dear Wife. Had said be- 
fore twas hard to know whether best to marry again or no; 
whom to marry. Gave him a book of the Berlin Jewish Con- 
verts. 


SEWALL’S DIARY 239 


March, 17. Do much business. Prove 4. Wills, Grant 
Administration on Col. Hutchinson’s Estate. Dr. Mather 
sends me his Marah in a Letter in which is this expression, 
“But your Honor will allow me now at length, to offer you 
my Opinion, that all the Regards are not yet paid, which you 
owe unto the Widow, and which are expected from you.” 

March, 19. Mr. Leverett, when he and I alone, told me 
his wife and he had laid out Madam Brown for me, and yet 
took occasion to say that Madam Winthrop had done very 
generously by the Major General’s family in giving up her 
Dower. I said, if Madam Brown should leave her fair Ac- 
comodations at Salem, she might be apt to repent it. 

Second-day, April, 7 I prove Mr. William Denison’s Will. 
Her brother Edmund [Weld] brought the widow to Town, 
and gave me notice before hand. I ask’d her how old Mr. 
Denison was, She told me he was born in September; was 53. 
years old last September. I gave her 10® to give her sister 
Weld for her Indian Bible. Ask’d me whether ’twas neces- 
sary to bring in an Inventory. Inclin’d to think she ought; 
but I would speak with her again. Mr. Dorr took occasion in 
her absence to say she was one of the most dutifull Wives in 
the world. Her Cousin, the Widow Hayden, accidentally 
came in with her. 

April, 8. Mr. Boydell when I was at his office, and sign’d 
the Papers, smiling said Mr. Denison’s Will look’d as if it 
was written by me. I told him yes, but there was not a tittle 
of it mine but the form. Writ to Mr. Mayhew per Mr. Jn? 
Allen. 

April, 25. Friday, Col. Quinsey comes to Town, and Col. 
Townsend and Mr. Bromfield by vertue of a Dedimus from 
the Gov', administer the Oaths to him and me; and Congrat- 
ulat us in our Offices. In the evening Sister Northend comes 
in, brought by her son John, which is a Refreshment to us. 
The Lord help me, that as He is anointing me with fresh 
oyls, as to my office; so He would graciously pardon my Sin, 


240 SEWALL’S DIARY 


and furnish me with Renewed and augmented Ability for the 
rightful discharge of the Trust reposed in me! 

June 3. Go to Roxbury in my Son’s Calash aad with him 
Visit Gov’ Dudley, —Mr. Walter, Talk with him about Mrs. 
D n [Denison]. He advises me not to see her then, lest 
should surprise her undress’d. “Told him I came on purpose; 
yet finally submitted to his Advice. he spake of her Coming to 
Town on Thorsday. 

June, 9. Mr. Corwin dies about 9. m. Col. Brown sent 
me word of it by Chapman. Note. Mrs. D n came in 
the morning about 9 aclock, and I took her up into my Cham- 
ber and discoursed thorowly with her; She desired me to pro- 
vide another and better Nurse. I gave her the two last News- 
Letters—told her I intended to visit her at her own house next 
Lecture-day. She said, *twould be talked of. I answer’d, 
In such Cases, persons must run the Gantlet. Gave her Mr. 
Whiting’s Oration for Abijah Walter, who brought her on 
horseback to Town. I think little or no Notice was taken 
of it. 

June, 17. Went to Roxbury Lecture, visited Mr. Walter. 
Mr. Webb preach’d. Visited Gov’ Dudley, Mrs. Denison, 
gave her Dr. Mather’s Sermons very well bound; told her 
we were in it invited to a Wedding. She gave me very good 
Curds. 

July, 7. 2. I give Mrs. Denison her Oath to the Inven- 
tory; gave her a Catalogue superscrib’d to her. Her Brot 
brought her. Mr. Shelden of North-Hampton dines with 
me. At night, when all were gone to bed; Cousin Moodey 
went with me into the new Hall, read the history of Rebekah’s 
Courtship, and pray’d with me respecting my Widowed Con- 
dition. 

16. 4. Went to Woodell’s and rode in his Coach to 
Meers’s, from thence went and visited Mrs. Denison; Gave 
her K. George’s Effigies in Coper; and an Engl. Crown of K. 








SEWALL’S DIARY 241 


Charles 24 1677. Eat Curds with her; I craved a Blessing, 
and Returned Thanks; came home after it. 

Augt, 1. 6. Court rises, gave Mr. Apleton 208, who had 
pray d 4 times. “This was the longest Court that I remember 
at Cambridge. Rode home round with Stedmand, visit Mrs. 
Denison. Madam Rogers and Leverett much congratulated 
me upon my Courting her. 

Augt 6. 4. Visited Mrs. Denison, Carried her, her Sister 
Weld, the Widow, and Mrs. Weld to her Bro™ Mr. Samuel 
Weld, where we were Courteously entertained. Brought Mr. 
Edmund Weld’s wife home with me in the Coach; she is in 
much darkness. Gave Mrs. Denison a Psalm-Book neatly 
bound in England with Turkey-Leather. 

15. I, with my Son and daughter, J. Sewall, dine at Gov" 
Dudley’s, Mr. Walter and his wife and Son, Son and daughter 
Sewall of Brooklin and their Daughter there, and Col. Dud- 
ley: Mrs. Denison I supose was the principal Guest, I waited 
on her home. 

22. 6. I take my daughter Judith, and Cousin Green with 
me in the Coach and sup with Mrs. Denison. 

27. 4. I ride and visit Mrs. Denison, leave my Horse at 
the Gray-Hound. She mentions her discouragements by reason 
of Discourses she heard: I pray’d God to direct her and me. 

Oct’. 11%. Visit Mrs. Denison, Bring Dr. Cotton Mather’s 
youngest Daughter home with me in the Coach, at Mr. Wal- 
ter’s desire. 

Wednesday, Oct’. 15. Visit Mrs. Denison on Horseback; 
present her with a pair of Shoe-buckles, cost 5° 34. Went and 
gave my Condolence to Madam Walter on account of the 
death of her Son Increase at Jamaica, which she took well. 
Hold the Privat Meeting at my house. 

Friday, 8" 24. Brother Sewall visits me. While he was 
here, Mrs. Elizabeth Byles, Dr. Mather’s daughter, Tells me 
of Col. Thomas’s Death, whereby he is freed from his solici- 


242 SEWALL’S DIARY 


tude as to a Judge of the Super™ Court at Salem next 9". Mr. 
Dwight of Woodstock dines with us. Visit Mrs. Denison. 
The privat Meeting was at her house, which I was not 
aware of. I went to Mr. Walter’s to Condole him; and 
knocking at the door was called to, and told they were all 
gon to the Meeting. I ask’d where? they said at Mrs. Den- 
ison’s. I went thither where I found Mr. Walter at prayer. 
Mr. Thomas Walter made a very good Sermon from John, 
13. 7. Shewing the Duty of Submitting to God’s Soveraignty, 
the great Sin of doing contrarily. Pray’d. Sung part of the 
145. Psal. which he set to Low Dutch very well. Pray’d. 
The room was full; Gov’ Dudley and his Lady, widow Rug- 
gles, &c. there. Rain’d hard. I sup’d with Mrs. Denison, got 
home about 8. at night. Laus Deo. Noyes, March here. 
7% day, 9° 1. His Excellency comes not into Council. My 
Son from Brooklin being here I took his Horse, and visited 
Mrs. Denison. Sat in the Chamber next Maj’ Bowls. I told 
her ’twas time now to finish our Business: Ask’d her what I 
should allow her; she not speaking; I told her I was willing 
to give her Iwo [Hundred?] and Fifty pounds per anum 
during her life, if it should please God to take me out of the 
world before her. She answer’d she had better keep as she 
was, than give a Certainty for an uncertainty; She should pay 
dear for dwelling at Boston. I desired her to make proposals, 
but she made none. I had Thoughts of Publishment next 
Thorsday the 6th. But I now seem to be far from it. May 
God, who has the pity of a Father, Direct and help me! 
Friday, 9° 28. 1718. Having consulted with Mr. Walter 
after Lecture, he advised me to goe and speak with Mrs. Den- 
ison. I went this day in the Coach; had a fire made in the 
Chamber where I spake with her before, 9 the first: I en- 
quired how she had done these 3 or 4 weeks; Afterwards I 
told her our Conversation had been such when I was with 
her last, that it seem’d to be a direction in Providence, not to 
proceed any further; She said, It must be what I pleas’d, or 


SEWALL’S DIARY 243 


to that purpose. Afterward she seem’d to blame that I had 
not told her so 9° 1. Because the man had been there several 
times to take the Living, and she knew not what Answer to 
give. I said I knew not but that intended to Let the Living 
although she lived single. I repeated her words of 9 1. She 
seem’d at first to start at the words of her paying dear, as if 
she had not spoken them. But she said she thought twas Hard 
to part with 4//, and have nothing to bestow on her Kindred. 
I said, I did not intend anything of the Movables, I intended 
all the personal Estate to be to her. She said I seem’d to be 
in a hurry on Saturady, 9° 1., which was the reason she gave 
me no proposals. Whereas I had ask’d her long before to 
give me proposals in Writing; and she upbraided me, That I 
who had never written her a Letter, should ask her to write. 
She asked me if I would drink, I told her Yes. She gave 
me Cider, Aples and a Glass of Wine: gathered together the 
little things I had given her, and offer’d them to me; but I 
would take none of them. ‘Told her I wish’d her well, should 
be glad to hear of her welfare. She seem’d to say she should 
not again take in hand a thing of this nature. Thank’d me 
for what I had given her and Desired my Prayers. I gave 
Abijah Weld an Angel. Mr. Stoddard and his wife came in 
their Coach to see their Sister which broke off my Visit. Upon 
their asking me, I dismiss’'d my Coach, and went with them 
to see Mr. Danforth, and came home by Moon-shine. Got 
home about 9. at night. Laus Deo. 

My bowels yern towards Mrs. Denison; but I think God 
directs me in his Providence to desist. The first time that I 
mention’d making an Agreement, She said if we could not 
agree we must break off. When I came home, Mr. Mayhew 
told me the Deputies had Negatived Mr. Belcher’s Memorial 
about reimbursing £500. Sterling for what he had laid out in 
England. I do not know I heard any thing of it before; that 
any such Motion was made this Court. Note. Mrs. Denison 


244 SEWALL’S DIARY 


told me she came afoot to Lecture; but I saw her not, nor 
knew anything of it till she told me. 

Nov? 30. lLord’s-day. In the evening I sung the 120. 
Psalm in the family. About 7 a-clock Mrs. Dorothy Den- 
ison comes in, her Cousin Weld coming first, saying she de- 
sired to speak with me in privat. I had a fire in the new 
Hall, and was at prayer; was very much startled that she 
should come so far a-foot in that exceeding Cold Season; She 
enter’d into discourse of what pass’d between us at Roxbury 
last Friday; I seem’d to be alter’d in my affection; ask’d par- 
don if she had affronted me. Seem’d to incline the Match 
should not break off, since I had kept her company so long. 
Said Mr. Denison spake to her after his Signing the Will, 
that he would not make her put all out of her Hand and 
power, but reserve somwhat to bestow on his Friends that 
might want. I told her She might keep all. She excus’d, and 
said ’twas not such an all. I Comended the estate. I could 
not observe that she made me any offer of any part all this 
while. She mention’d two Glass Bottles she had. I told her 
they were hers, and the other small things I had given her, 
only now that they had not the same signification as before. 
I was much concern’d for her being in the Cold, would fetch 
her in a plate of somthing warm: (for I had not sup’d), she 
refus’d. However I Fetched a Tankard of Cider and drank 
to her. She desired that no body might know of her being 
here. I told her they should not. Sam. Hirst went to the 
door, who knew not her Cousin Weld; and not so much as 
he might stay in the room while we talked together. She 
went away in the bitter Cold, no moon being up, to my great 
pain. I Saluted her at parting. 

21 day, Dec’ 1. Had much probat Business. Mr. May- 
hew tells me he preach’d at Needham yesterday: they had no 
Minister there. Preach’d a Lecture to day at Natick at Jn® 
Nesnumun’s house. He is not well. Dr. Clark says the 
Small pocks is in Town. Capt Sargent of Newbury, his 


SRWALL! S DUAR Y 24.5 


daughter, has it in Charter-street. The Lord be Mercifull to 
Boston! 

Monday, Dect 22. Mrs. Dorothy Denison brings an addi- 
tional Inventory. I gave her the Oath; ask’d her Bro™ Brewer 
and her to dine with me: She said she needed not to eat; 
Caus’d her to sit by the fire, and went with her to the dvor, 
at her going away. She said nothing to me, nor her Bro" 
Brewer. 

19. 5. After the Comissioners Meeting I visited Mr. Fox- 
croft and his new-married Wife. ‘They entertain’d me cour- 
teously, and the father and Mother. Mr. Prince came to 
my house, just sat down with me, and desired to be excused, 
went through the Kitchen to Lydia Kay’s Chamber, (Sam 
Hirst shewing him the way,) was knocking and pleading a 
long time at the door before they would let him in; Judith 
trembled much, and is more and more alienated from him by 
his rough upbraiding Carriage towards her. ‘The Lord be 
mercifull to her and me, pardon our Sins, and guide us! 

April, 1, 1719. Midweek. Col. Townsend and Mr. Wood 
dine with me. In the morning I dehorted Sam. Hirst and 
Grindal Rawson from playing Idle Tricks because ’twas first 
of April; They were the greatest fools that did so. N. E. 
Men came hither to avoid anniversary days, the keeping of 
them, such as the 25th of Dec’. How displeasing must it be 
to God, the giver of our Time, to keep aniversary days to 
play the fool with ourselves and others. p.m. John Arcus 
brings me a superscribed paper, wherein were a pair of very 
good white Kid’s Leather Gloves, and a Gold Ring with four 
peny weight wanting 3 Grains, with this Motto, Lex et Lib- 
ertas. A. T. I have received 4. Presents lately; 4 Oranges. 
2 Pieces of Salmon, Madam Foxcroft’s Wedding Cake; a:¢ 
this which is a very fair Present indeed. I have hardly any 
to compare with it. “The good Lord help me to serve faith- 
fully the Supreasn Donor! 

29.7 £ vist Mrs. Tilly the 24 time; it seems she was 


246 SEWALL’S DIARY 


born in Elisabeth’s Town in the Jerseys. In her ZO year 
when she married Mr. Woodmansey. 

Sept’ 2. Visit Mrs. Tilly, and speak with her in her Cham- 
ber; ask her to come and cwell at my house. She expresses 
her Unworthiness of such a thing with much Respect. I tell 
her of my going to Bristol. I would have her consider of: 
she answered she would have me consider of it. 

7* 16. After the Meeting I visited Mrs. Tilly. 

7 cL Bomditto; 

7? 21. I gave Mrs. Tilly a little booke entitled Ornaments 
for the daughters of Sion. I gave it to my dear wife Augt 28. 
1702. 

232 24 eat Almonds and Reasons with Mrs. Tilly and 
Mrs. Armitage; Discoursed with Mrs. Armitage, who spake 
very agreeably, and said Mrs. Tilly had been a great Blessing 
to them, and hop’d God would make her so to me and my 
family. At my coming home am told that Col. W™ Dudley 
had call’d and said that Judith was sick of the Fever and 
Ague at the Lt Gov" 

7" 25. Visited Madam Pemberton to enquire after Judith: 
She aplauded my Courting Mrs. Tilley: I thank’d her for 
her Favour in maintaining what I did. Met with the Lt Gov* 
there beyond expectation: Thank’d him for his Kindness to 
my daughter: He received me very courteously. Discours’d 
with my Son the Minister about this, and Hanah’s Motion 
to have Ministers pray with her. Discours’d with Mr. Cut- 
ler, president [of Yale College]. Son and Daughter visit us 
from Brooklin and dine with us. Visited Mrs. Sewall and 
enquired of her Sick Son. Visited Mrs. Tilly. When came 
home they told me Mr. Stoddard had invited me to eat Salt- 
Fish with him. 

7’ 26. Col. W™ Dudley calls, and after other discourse, 
ask’d me [leave?] to wait on my daughter Judith home, when 
’twas fit for her to come; I answered, It was reported he had 
aplyed to her and he said nothing to me, when rode with me 


SEWALL’S DIARY 247 


to Dedham. As came back, I call’d at his house, as I had 
said, and he was not at home. His waiting on her might 
give some Umbrage: I would Speak with her first. Spoke to 
him about Newman’s Execution. Delay was Disobedience to 
the Precept. He said ’twas attach’d; I told him it was not 
yet Newman’s Money. 

8 9th 6. Waited on Mrs. Tilley and Armitage, and visited 
Mr. Prince and Mrs. Deborah Deny, at Mr. D. Olivers. 

8’ 12. Monday, write to my daughter Judith, inclosing 
it to Bro™ Northend by the Post: Would have her advise with 
her unkle Moodey as her father. 

Octob? 13. TTuesday p. m. Gov" Dudley visits me in his 
Chariot; speaks to me in behalf of Col. W™ Dudley, that I 
would give him leave that he might visit my daughter Judith. 
I said ’twas a weighty matter. I would consider of it &Xc. 

8 14%, I went to James William’s, and left a Note with 
his wife and 1§ for my Publishm’*. Meeting is at Sister Em- 
ons’s. By the way as I went, visited Col. Checkley who is 
very sick, says he is this day 66. years old; takes my visit very 
kindly and desires Prayers. Mr. Belcher, Dedham, visited 
Mrs. Tilley this day. 

8" 15. I am Publish’d the first time. Gov" Phillips sits 
above our Governour all Lecture-time, although Gov’ Shute 
put him upon it 2 or 3 times to go into the Seat first, which 
he would not doe, Whether through real, or feigned mistake, 
I say not. Mr. Colman preach’d from Mal. 1. 14. For I 
am a great King, saith the Lord of Hosts. ‘The first five 
verses of the 99 Psalm sung. 

26. or 27. I visited Dr. I. Mather, designing to ask him 
to Marry me. I ask’d him whether it was convenient to 
marry on the evening after the Thanksgiving; he made me 
no answer. I ask’d agen. He said Mr. Prince had been with 
him to marry him; but he told him he could not go abroad in 
the evening. Then I thought twas in vain to proceed any 
further: for Mrs. Tilley’s preparations were such that I could 


248 SEWALL’S DIARY 


not defer it any longer; and could not be Married sooner, 
because I was Out-published on the Thanks-giving Day, and 
not before. 

Octob? 28. 4. I went to Mr. Prince and ask’d him to be at 
my Wedding, and Mrs. Deny, which he readily agreed to. 
I ask’d him to make the 24 Prayer. In the evening Brot 
Moodey brings home Mary Hirst. I sent to each of the Doc- 
tors [Mather] an Angel as I us’d to do, and invited them to 
Dinner on Friday and their Wives. 

Octob™ 29. ‘Thanks-giving-day: between 6 and 7. Brother 
Moodey and I went to Mrs. Tilley’s; and about 7, or 8, were 
married by Mr. J. Sewall, in the best room below stairs. Mr. 
Prince pray’d the 27 time. Mr. Adams the Minister of New- 
ington was there, Mr. Oliver and Mr. Tim® Clark Justices, 
and many more. Sung the 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16. verses of 
the 90 Psalm. Cous. S. Sewall set Low-dutch Tune in a 
very good Key, which made the Singing with a good number 
of Voices very agreeable. Distributed Cake. Mrs. Armitage 
introduced me into my Bride’s Chamber after she was a-bed. 
I thank’d her that she had left her room in that Chamber to 
make way for me, and pray’d God to provide for her a better 
Lodging: So none saw us after I went to bed. Quickly after 
our being a-bed my Bride grew so very bad she was fain to 
sit up in her bed; I rose to get her Petit Coats about her. I 
was excedingly amaz’d, fearing lest she should have dy’d. 
‘Through the favour of God she recover’d in some considerable 
time of her Fit of the Tissick, spitting, partly blood. She 
herself was under great Consternation. 

Friday, 8° 30. Gov" Shute, Gov’ Dudley and his Lady, 
Councillors and Ministers in Town with their Wives dined 
with us, except Dr. Incr. Mather and Mr. Belcher. Had a 
very good diner, at Four Tables, IT'wo in the best Room. 
Many Coaches there. In the evening Mr. Oliver invited me 
and my Bride to Mr. Prince’s Wedding. We went half way 
up the Hill, and my Bride could go no further; but was fain 


I i i 


SEWALL’S DIARY 249 


to return back by reason of her great Cold and Shortness of 
breath. Then I went, and saw Mr. Sewall Marry Mr. Prince 
and Mrs. Deborah Denny at Mr. Oliver’s. Mr. Oliver, Dr. 
Noyes, Mr. Anth® Stoddard, and their Wives present. Had 
a good Super and Cake. Sung about two Staves in the 4 
part of the 73. Psalm. I set the Tune. Mr. Oliver in the 
name of the Overseers [of the Meeting house] invites my 
Wife to sit in the Fore-Seat. I thought no other but to have 
brought her into my Pue, and sat with her there a day or two, 
and so I told Mr. Oliver: but he insisted. I thank’d him and 
the Overseers. 

29. 3. My wife had a very bad night, thought she should 
have died, had such a shaking Ague-Fit. But through Mercy, 
all went over well. 

Gov’ Saltonstall visits us, wishes my wife Joy. 

30. 4. Great Storm of Snow. 

Lord’s Day, March 20, 1719-20. Madam Winthrop comes 
to Meeting, p. m. puts up a Note of Thanks-giving to God. 
Capt. Tim Clark, and Dr. Noyes were with us all day. Eb- 
enezer baptised. 

March, 25. Friday, I visited Gov’ Dudley, Sat a-while 
with Madam Dudley, who excus’d my not being asked to go 
up, from the very great Weakness of Gov’ Dudley, and the 
want of the Exercise of his Understanding. He is lifted to 
and fro like a child. Drank a Glass of Mead. Mr. Foxcroft 
and his Wife visit us. 

Feria sexta, April, 8. Gov"? Dudley is buried in his father 
Gov" Dudley’s Tomb at Roxbury. Boston and Roxbury Reg- 
iments were under Arms, and 2 or 3 Troops: Bearers, His 
Exce:lency Governour Shute, Samuel Sewall; Col. Townsend, 
Col. Appleton; Mr. President Leverett, Col. Samuel Brown. 
Scarvs, Rings, Gloves. Scutcheons. Councillours and Min- 
isters had Scarvs, and Consulary Men. Col. Otis, Thaxter. 
Quincey, Dows, Norden, Judge Lynde, Col. Pain were there 
cut of Town. Judge Dudley in a mourning Cloak led the 
Widow; When I took leave of her, She desired my Prayers. 


250 SEWALL’S DIARY 


Were very many people, spectators out of windows, on Fences 
aud Trees, like Pigeons. ‘The Bells in Boston were rung for 
the Funeral; which was finish’d when the Sun was near an 
hour high. I and my wife, and Son and daughter Sewall 
went and came back in the Hackney Coach very well. JLaus 
Deo. ‘The Lord grant that I may be clothed upon before un- 
cloathed. ‘Thursday night, the evening before the Funeral, 
Hanah Hirst read in Course the 19 of the Revelation. 

May, 12. Mr. Sewall Preaches. Mr. Colman and he 
dine with the Governour; Strive to enter in— In the even- 
ing I join the Rev? Mr. William Cooper, and Mrs. Judith 
Sewall in Marriage. I said to Mr. Simeon Stoddard and his 
Wife, Sir, Madam, The great Honour you have conferr’d on 
the Bridegroom and the Bride, by being present at this Solem- 
nity, does very Conveniently supersede any further enquiry 
after your Consent. And the part I am desired to take in 
this Wedding, renders the way of my giving my Consent very 
Compendious: There’s no maner of room left for that previous 
Question, Who giveth this Woman to be married to this 
Man? 

Dear Child, you give me your Hand for one moment, and 
the Bridegroom forever. Spouse, You Accept and receive this 
Woman now given you &. Mr. Sewall pray’d before the 
Wedding, and Mr. Colman after. Sung the 115. Psalm from 
the 9. verse to the end, in the New-Hall, St David’s, which 
I set There we had our Cake, and Sack-posset. 

May, 15. My wife goes not out in the morning, and I 
read part of Mr. Willard’s Sermon out of the Fountain open’d, 
and prayed with her, which she took very kindly. Went out 
in the afternoon, and visited little Sam. Sewall, very sick. 
Mr. Cooper and his Bride went to our Meeting, and sat in 
my Pue. 

May 26. Din’d with the Churches at the Dragon. Be- 
tween 4 and 5. the Gov’ adjourned to Ten a-clock Satterday 
morning, and presently rose up and went away. NB. Went 


SEWALL’S DIARY 2c% 


to Bed after Ten: about 11 or before, my dear Wife was 
opressed with a rising of Flegm that obstructed her Breathing. 
1 arose and lighted a Candle, made Scipio give me a Bason of 
Water (he was asleep by the fire) Call’d Philadelphia, Mr. 
Cooper, Mayhew. About midnight my dear wife expired to 
our great astonishment, especially mine. May the Sovereign 
Lord pardon my Sin, and Sanctify to me this very Extraor- 
dinary, awfull Dispensation. Major Epes, Dr. Cotton Mather, 
Mr. Williams of Hatfield, of Derefield, Mr. Prince, Mr. 
Whiting of Concord, visit me in a very friendly and Chris- 
tian manner. Before Super I sung the 130% Psalm, and a 
staft out of the 46. Mr. Williams of Hatfield, sympathising 
with me, said twas what befell the Prophet Ezekiel. 

May, 29. God having in his holy Sovereignty put my Wife 
out of the Fore-Seat, I aprehended I had Cause to be asham’d 
of my Sin, and to loath my self for it; and retired into my 
Pue. Mr. Williams of Derefield preach’d in the morning 
from Rom. 5. Christ died for Siners. Mr. Sewall adminis- 
tered the Lords Super. I put up a Note to this purpose; Sam- 
uel Sewall, depriv’d of his dear Wife by a very sudden and 
awfull Stroke, desires Prayers that God would sanctify the 
same to himself, and Children, and family. Writ and sent 
three; to the South, Old and Mr. Colman’s. Mr. Prince 
preaches p. m. Mat. 25. At midnight behold a Cry was 
made. 

Tuesday, May, 31. Buried my dear Wife. Bearers, Col. 
Tailer, Bromfield, Stoddard, Davenport; Dudley, Mr. Dan! 
Oliver. Gov" and Lt Gov’ had Scarvs and Rings. Bro™ heard 
the Funeral was not over, by the Post, came away after 2. 
and was timely at the Funeral: had a Comfortable day; though 
threatened with Rain. Laus Deo. I went into the Tomb: 
The good Lord prepare for me a House not made with Hands, 
eternal in the Heavens, and the Consideration of that will 
make the Grave a Lightsom place. My Son prays in his Sis- 
ter’s Chamber very pertinently, affectionatly. 


262 SEWALL’S DIARY 


June, 1. Brother goes home; gave him a =ciirf: prov’d the 
will of Jn° Loring of Hull. Eat a good Lisk of Strawber- 
ries, part of Sister Stoddard’s present. 

Sept’ 5. Mary Hirst goes to Board with Madam Oliver 
and her Mother Loyd. Going to Son Sewali’s I there meet 
with Madam Winthrop, told her I was glac te meet her there, 
had not seen her a great while; gave her Mr. ffomes’s Sermon. 

7’ 30. Mr. Colman’s Lecture: Daughter Sewall acquaints 
Madam Winthrop that if she pleas’d to be within at 3 p. m. 
I would wait on her. She answer’d she would be at home. 

8° 1. Satterday, I dine at Mr. Stoddard’s: from thence 
I went to Madam Winthrop’s just at 3. Spake to her, say- 
ing, my loving wife died so soon and suddenly, ’twas hardly 
convenient for me to think of Marrying again; however I 
came to this Resolution, that I would not make my Court to 
any person without first Consulting with her. Had a pleas- 
ant discourse about 7 [seven] Single persons sitting in the 
Fore-seat 7’ 29%, viz. Mad™ Rebekah Dudley, Catharine 
Winthrop, Bridget Usher, Deliverance Legg, Rebekah Loyd, 
Lvdia Colman, Elizabeth Bellingham. She propounded one 
and another for me; but none would do, said Mrs. Loyd was 
about her Age. 

Octob™ 3. 2. Waited on Madam Winthrop again; "twas 
a little while before she came in. Her daughter Noyes being 
there alone with me, I said, I hoped my Waiting on her 
Mother would not be disagreeable to her. She answer’d she 
should not be against that that might be for her Comfort. I 
Saluted her, and told her I perceiv’d I must shortly wish her 
a good Time; (her mother had told me, she was with Child, 
and within a Moneth or two of her Time). By and by in 
came Mr. Airs, Chaplain of the Castle, and hang’d up his 
Hat, which I was a little startled at, it seeming as if he was 
to lodge there. At last Madam Winthrop came in too. After 
a considerable time, I went up to her and said, if it might 
not be inconvenient I desired to speak with her. She assented, 


SEWALL’S DIARY 253 


and spake of going into another Room; but Mr. Airs and 
Mrs. Noyes presently rose up, and went out, leaving us there 
alone. ‘Then I usher’d in Discourse from the names in the 
Fore-seat; at last I pray’d that Katharine [Mrs. Winthrop] 
might be the person assign’d for me. She instantly took it up 
in the way of Denyal, as if she had catch’d at an Opportunity 
to do it, saying she could not do it before she was asked. Said 
that was her mind unless she should Change it, which she be- 
lieved she should not; could not leave her Children. I ex- 
press my Sorrow that she should do it so Speedily, pray’d 
her Consideration, and ask’d her when I should wait on her 
agen. She setting no time, I mention’d that day Sennight. 
Gave her Mr. Willard’s Fountain open’d with the little print 
and verses; saying, I hop’d if we did well read that book, we 
should meet together hereafter, if we did not now. She took 
the Book, and put it in her Pocket. “Took Leave. 

8 5. Midweek, I din’d with the Court; from thence went 
and visited Cousin Jonathan’s wife, Lying in with her little 
Betty. Gave the Nurse 28. Although I had apointed to wait 
upon her, M™ Winthrop, next Monday, yet I went from my 
Cousin Sewall’s thither about 3. p. m. The Nurse told me 
Madam dined abroad at her daughter Noyes’s, they were to 
go out together. I ask’d for the Maid, who was not within. 
Gave Katee a peny and a Kiss, and came away. Accom- 
panyed my Son and dater Cooper in their Remove to their 
New House. 

8 6, <A little after 6. p. m. I went to Madam Win- 
throp’s. She was not within. I gave Sarah Chickering the 
Maid 28, Juno, who brought in wood, 1%. Afterward the 
Nurse came in, I gave her 184, having no other small Bill. 
After awhile Dr. Noyes came in with his Mother; and 
quickly after his wife came in: They sat talking, I think, till 
eight a-clock. I said I fear’d I might be some Interruption 
to their Business: Dr. Noyes reply’d pleasantly: He fear’d 
they might be an Interruption to me, and went away. Madam 


254 SEWALL’S DIARY 


seem’d to harp upon the same string. Must take care of her 
Children; could not leave that House and Neighbourhood 
where she had dwelt so long. I told her she might doe her 
children as much or more good by bestowing what she laid 
out in Hous-keeping, upon them. Said her Son would be of 
Age the 7 of August. I said it might be inconvenient for 
her to dwell with her Daughter-in-Law, who must be Mis- 
tress of the House. I gave her a piece of Mr. Belcher’s Cake 
and Ginger-Breaa wrapped up in a clean sheet of Paper; told 
her of her Father’s kindness to me when ‘Treasurer, and I 
Constable. My Daughter Judith was gon from me and I 
was more lonesom—might help to forward one another in our 
Journey to Canaan.—Mr. Eyre came within the door; I sa- 
luted him, ask’d how Mr. Clark did, and he went away. I 
took leave about 9 aclock. I told [her] I came now to re- 
fresh her Memory as to Monday-night; said she had not for- 
got it. In discourse with her, I ask’d leave to speak with her 
Sister; I meant to gain Mad™ Mico’s favour to persuade her 
Sister. She seem’d surpris’d and displeas’d, and said she was 
in the same condition! 

In the Evening I visited Madam Winthrop, who treated 
me with a great deal of Curtesy; Wine, Marmalade. I gave 
her a News-Letter about the Thanksgiving; Proposals, for 
sake of the verses for David Jeffries. She tells me Dr. In- 
crease Mather visited her this day, in Mr. Hutchinson’s Coach, 

8 11" I writ a few Lines to Madam Winthrop to this pur. 
pose: “Madam, These wait on you with Mr. Mayhew’s Ser- 
mon, and Account of the state of the Indians on Martha’s 
Vinyard. I thank you for your Unmerited Favours of yes- 
terday; and hope to have the Hapiness of Waiting on you to- 
morrow before Eight a-clock after Noon. I pray Gop to 
keep you, and give you a joyfull entrance upon the Two Hun- 
dred and twenty ninth year of Christopher Columbus his Dis- 
covery; and take Leave, who am, Madam, your humble Servt. 


5. 5. 


SEWALL’S DIARY 255 


Sent this by Deacon Green, who deliver’d it to Sarah 
Chickering, her Mistress not being at home. 

Mrs. Anne Cotton came to door (twas before 8.) said 
Madam Winthrop was within, directed me into the little 
Room, where she was full of work behind a Stand; Mrs. Cot- 
ton came in and stood. Madam Winthrop pointed to her to 
set me a Chair. Madam Winthrop’s Countenance was much 
changed from what ’twas on Monday, look’d dark apd low- 
ering. At last, the work, (black stuff or Silk) was taken 
away, I got my Chair in place, had some Converse, but very 
Cold and indifferent to what ’twas before. Ask’d her to ac- 
quit me of Rudeness if I drew off her Glove. Enquiring the 
reason, I told her twas great odds between handling a dead 
Goat, and a living Lady. Got it off. I told her I had one 
Petition to ask of her, that was, that she would take off the 
Negative she laid on me the third of October; She readily 
answer’d she could not, and enlarg’d upon it; She told me of 
it so soon as she could; could not leave her house, children, 
neighbours, business. I told her she might do som Good to 
help and suport me. Mentioning Mrs. Gookin, Nath, the 
widow Weld was spoken of; said I had visited Mrs. Denison. 
I told her Yes! Afterward I said, If after a first and second 
Vagary she would Accept of me returning, Her Victorious 
Kindness and Good Will would be very Obliging. She 
thank’d me for my Book, (Mr. Mayhew’s Sermon), But said 
not a word of the Letter. When she insisted on the Nega- 
tive, I pray’d there might be no more Thunder and Lighten- 
ing, I should not sleep all night. I gave her Dr. Preston, The 
Church’s Marriage and the Church’s Carriage, which cost 
me 6° at the Sale. The door standing open, Mr. Airs came 
in, hung up his Hat, and sat down. After awhile, Madam 
Winthrop moving, he went out. Jn° Eyre look’d in, I said 
How do ye, or, your servant Mr. Eyre: but/ heard no word 
from him. Sarah fill’d a Glass of Wine, she drank to me, I 


to her, She sent Juno home with me with a good Lanter::, I 


256 SEWALL’S DIARY 


gave her 6% and bid her thank her Mistress. In some of our 
Discourse, I told her I had rather go to the Stone-House ad- 
joining to her, than to come to her against her mind. ‘Told 
her the reason why I came every other night was lest I should 
drink too deep draughts of Pleasure. She had talk’d of Can- 
ary, her Kisses were to me better than the best Canary. Ex- 
plain’d the expression Concerning Columbus. 

8' 15. I dine on Fish and Oyle at Mr. Stoddard’s. Capt. 
Hill wish’d me Joy of my proceedings i. e. with M— Win- 
throp; Sister Cooper aplauded it, spake of Visiting her: | 
said her Complaisance of her Visit would be obliging to me.’ 

8 16. L. Day, I upbraided my self that could be so so- 
licitous about Earthly things; and so cold and indifferent as 
to the Love of Christ, who is altogether Lovely. 

8' 17. In the Evening I visited Madam Winthrop, who 
Treated me Courteously, but not in Clean Linen as sometimes. 
She said, she did not know whether I would come again, or 
no. I ask’d her how she could so impute inconstancy to me. 
(I had not visited her since Wednesday night being unable to 
get over the Indisposition received by the Treatment received 
that night, and I must in it seem’d to sound like a made piece 
of Formality.) Gave her this day’s Gazett. 

8’ 18. Visited Madam Mico, who came to me in a splen- 
did Dress. I said, It may be you have heard of my Visiting 
Madam Winthrop, her Sister. She answered, Her Sister had 
told her of it. I ask’d her good Will in the Affair. She an- 
swerd, If her Sister were for it, she should not hinder it. I 
gave her Mr. Homes’s Sermon. She gave me a Glass of Can- 
ary, entertain’d me with good Discourse, and a Respectfull 
Remembrance of my first Wife. I took Leave. 

8' 19. Midweek, Visited Madam Winthrop; Sarah told 
me she was at Mr. Walley’s, would not come home till late. 
I gave her Hanah 3 oranges with her Duty, not knowing 
whether I should find her or no. Was ready to go home: but 
said if I knew she was there, I would go thither. Sarah 


ee ee 


SEWALL’S DIARY 257 


seem’d to speak with pretty good Courage, She would be there. 
I went and found her there, with Mr. Walley and his wife 
in the little Room below. At 7 a-clock I mentioned going 
home; at 8. I put on my Coat, and quickly waited on her 
home. She found occasion to speak loud to the servant, as if 
she had a mind to be known. Was Courteous to me; but 
took occasion to speak pretty earnestly about my keeping a 
Coach: I said ’twould cost £100. per anum: she said twould 
cost but £40. Spake much against John Winthrop, his false- 
heartedness. Mr. Eyre came in and sat awhile; I offer’d him 
Dr. Incr. Mather’s Sermons, whereof Mr. Apleton’s Ordina- 
tion Sermon was one; said he had them already. I said I 
would give him another. Exit. Came away somewhat late. 
8™ 20. At Council, Col. Townsend spake to me of my 
Hood: Should get a Wigg. I said twas my chief ornament: 
I wore it for sake of the Day. Bro Odlin, and Sam, Mary, 
and Jane Hirst dine with us. Promis’d to wait on the Gov" 
about 7. Madam Winthrop not being at Lecture, I went 
thither first; found her very Serene with her dater Noyes, 
Mrs. Dering, and the widow Shipreev sitting at a little Table, 
she in her arm’d Chair. She drank to me, and I to Mrs. 
Noyes. After awhile pray’d the favour to speak with her. She 
took one of the Candles, and went into the best Room, clos’d 
the shutters, sat down upon the Couch. She told me Madam 
Usher had been there, and said the Coach must be set on 
Wheels, and not by Rusting. She spake somthing of my need- 
ing a Wigg. <Ask’d me what her Sister said to me. I told 
her, She said, If her Sister were for it, She would not hinder 
it. But I told her, she did say she would be glad to have me 
for her Brother. Said, I shall keep you in the Cold, and 
asked her if she would be within to morrow night, for we 
had had but a running Feat. She said she could not tell 
whether she should, or no. I took Leave. As were drinking 
at the Governour’s, he said: In England the Ladies minded 
little more than that they might have Money, and Coaches to 


258 SEW ALLS Any 


ride in. I said, And New-England brooks its Name. At 
which Mr. Dudley smiled. Gov" said they were not quite so 
bad here. 

8' 21. Friday, My Son, the Minister, came to me p. m. by 
apointment and we pray one for another in the Old Chamber; 
more especially respecting my Courtship. About 6. a-clock I 
go to Madam Winthrop’s; Sarah told me her Mistress was 
gon out, but did not tell me whither she went. She presently 
order’d me a Fire; so I went in, having Dr. Sibb’s Bowels 
with me to read. I read the two first Sermons, still no body 
came in: at last about 9. a-clock Mr. Jn° Eyre came in; I 
took the oportunity to say to him as I had done to Mrs. Noyes 
before, that I hoped my Visiting his Mother would not be dis- 
agreeable to him; He answered me with much Respect. When 
twas after 9. a-clock He of himself said he would go and call 
her, she was but at one of his Brothers: A while after I heard 
Madam Winthrop’s voice, enquiring somthing about John. 
After a good while and Claping the Garden door twice or 
thrice, she came in. I mention’d somthing of the lateness; she 
banter’d me, and said I was later. She receiv’d me Courte- 
ously. I ask’d when our proceedings should be made publick: 
She said They were like to be no more publick than they were 
already. Offer’d me no Wine that I remember. I rose up at 
11 a-clock to come away, saying I would put on my Coat. She 
offer’d not to help me. I pray’d her that Juno might light 
me home, she open’d the Shutter, and said twas pretty light 
abroad; Juno was weary and gon to bed. So I came hom by 
Star-light as well as I could. At my first coming in, I gave 
Sarah five Shillings. I writ Mr. Eyre his Name in his book 
with the date Octob™ 21. 1720. It cost me 8%. Jehovah jireh! 
Madam told me she had visited M. Mico, Wendell, and W™ 
Clark of the South [Church]. 

Octob™ 22. Dater Cooper visited me before my going out 
sf Town, staid till about Sun set. I brought her going near 
as far as the Orange Tree. Coming back, near Leg’s Cor- 


SEWALL’S DIARY 259 


ner, Little David Jeffries saw me, and looking upon me very 
lovingly, ask’d me if I was going to see his Grandmother? I 
said, Not to-night. Gave him a peny, and bid him present my 
Service to his Grandmother. 

Octob™ 24. I went in the Hackny Coach through the 
Comon, stop’d at Madam Winthrop’s (had told her I would 
take my departure from thence). Sarah came to the door with 
Katee in her Arms: but I did not think to take notice of the 
Child. Call’d her Mistress. I told her, being encourag’d 
by David Jeffries loving eyes, and sweet Words, I was come 
to enquire whether she could find in her heart to leave that 
House and Neighbourhood, and go and dwell with me at the 
South-end; I think she said softly, Not yet. I told her It did 
not ly in my Lands to keep a Coach. If I should, I should be 
in danger to be brought to keep company with her Neighbour 
Brooker, (he was a little before sent to prison for Debt). Told 
her I had an Antipathy against those who would pretend to 
give themselves; but nothing of their Estate. I would a pro- 
portion of my Estate with my self. And I supos’d she would 
do so. As to a Perriwig, My best and greatest Friend, I 
could not possibly have a greater, began to find me with Hair 
before I was born, and had continued to do so ever since; and 
I could not find in my heart to go to another. She comended 
the book I gave her, Dr. Preston, the Church Marriage; 
quoted him saying ’twas inconvenient keeping out of a Fashion 
comonly used. I said the Time and Tide did circumscribe my 
Visit. She gave me a Dram of Black-Cherry Brandy, and 
gave me a lump of the Sugar that was in it. She wish’d me a 
good Journy. I pray’d God to keep her, and came away. Had 
a very pleasant Journy to Salem. 

8" 25. Sent a Letter of it to my Son of Wakefield, who 
delivered it not till Wednesday; so he visited her not till Fri- 
day p. m. and then presented my Service to her. 

31. 2. She proves her Husband’s Will. At night I, visited 
Madam Winthrop about 6, p.m. ‘They told me she was gon 


260 SE WALES a DA Roy 


to Madam Mico’s. I went thither and found she was gon; 
so return’d to her house, read the Epistles to the Galatians, 
Ephesians in Mr. Eyre’s Latin Bible. After the Clock struck 
8. I began to read the 103. Psalm. Mr. Wendell came in 
from his Warehouse. Ask’d me if I were alone? Spake very 
kindly to me, offer’d me to call Madam Winthrop. I told 
him, She would be angry, had been at Mrs. Mico’s; he help’d 
me on with my Coat and I came home: left the Gazett in the 
Bible, which told Sarah of, bid her present my Service to Mrs. 
Winthrop, and tell her I had been to wait on her if she had 
been at home. 

Nov? 1. I was so taken up that I could not go if I would. 

Nov? 2. Midweek, went again, and found Mrs. Alden 
there, who quickly went out. Gave her about %4 pound of 
Sugar Almonds, cost 3° per £. Carried them on Monday. She 
seem’d pleas’d with them, ask’d what they cost. Spake of giv- 
ing her a Hundred pounds per afium if I dy’d before her. 
Ask’d her what sum she would give me, if she should dy first? 
Said I would give her time to Consider of it. She said she 
heard as if I had given all to my Children by Deeds of Gift. 
I told her twas a mistake, Point-Judith was mine &c. ‘That 
in England, I own’d, my Father’s desire was that it should 
go to my eldest Son; ’twas 20£ per afium; she thought "twas 
forty. I think when I seem’d to excuse pressing this, she 
seem’d to think twas best to speak of it; a long winter was 
coming on. Gave me a Glass or two of Canary. 

Nov’ 48. Friday, Went again about 7. a-clock; found 
there Mr. John Walley and his wife: sat discoursing pleas- 
antly. JI shew’d them Isaac Moses’s [an Indian] Writing. 
Madam W. serv’d Comfeits to us. After a-while a Table 
was spread, and Super was set. I urg’d Sir. Walley to Crave 
a Blessing; but he put it upon me. About 9. they went away. 
I ask’d Madam what fashioned Neck-lace I should present 
her with, She said, None at all. I ask’d her Whereabout we 
left off last time; mention’d what I had offer’d to give her; 


SEWALL’S DIARY 261 


Ask’d her what she would give me; She said she could not 
Change her Condition: She had said so from the beginning; 
could not be so far from her Children, the Lecture. Quoted 
the Apostle Paul affirming that a single Life was better than 
a Married. I answer’d That was for the present Distress. 
Said she had not pleasure in things of that nature as formerly: 
I said, you are the fitter to make me a Wife. If she held 
in that mind, I must go home and bewail my Rashness in 
making more haste than good Speed. However, considering 
the Super, I desired her to be within next Monday night, if 
we liv’d so long. Assented. She charg’d me with saying, that 
she must put away Juno, if she came to me: I utterly deny’d 
it, it never came into my heart; yet she insisted upon it; saying 
it came in upon Discourse about the Indian woman that ob- 
tained her Freedom this Court. About 10. I said I would 
not disturb the good orders of her House, and came away. 
She not seeming pleas’d with my Coming away. Spake to her 
about David Jeffries, had not seen him. 

Monday, Nov? 7%. My Son pray’d in the Old Chamber. 
Our time had been taken up by Son and Daughter Cooper’s 
Visit; so that I only read the 130 and 143. Psalm. ‘Twas 
on the Account of my Courtship. I went to Mad. Winthrop; 
found her rocking her little Katee in the Cradle. I excus’d 
my Coming so late (near Eight). She set me an arm’d Chair 
and Cushoon; and so the Cradle was between her arm’d Chair 
and mine. Gave her the remnant of my Almonds; She did 
not eat of them as before; but laid them away; I said I came 
to enquire whether she had alter’d her mind since Friday, or 
remained of the same mind still. She said, Thereabouts. I 
told her I loved her, and was so fond as to think that she 
loved me: She said had a great respect for me. I told her, I 
had made her an offer, without asking any advice; she had so 
many to advise with, that twas a hindrance. ‘The Fire was 
come to one short Brand besides the Block, which Brand was 
set up in end; at last it fell to pieces, and no Recruit was 


262 SEWALDL?S DIARY 


made: She gave me a Glass of Wine. I think I repeated 
again that I would go home and bewail my Rashness in mak- 
ing more haste than good Speed. I would endeavour to con- 
tain myself, and not go on to sollicit her to do that which she 
could not Consent to. Took leave of her. As came down 
the steps she bid me have a Care. “Treated me Courteously. 
Told her she had enter’d the 4th year of her Widowhood. 
I had given her the News-Letter before: I did not bid her 
draw off her glove as sometime I had done. Her Dress was 
not so clean as somtime it had been. Jehovah jireh! 

Midweek, 9" 98. Dine at Bro® Stoddard’s: were so kind as 
to enquire of me if they should invite M’™ Winthrop; I an- 
swerd No. Thank’d my Sister Stoddard for her Courtesie; 
sat down at the Table Simeon Stoddard esqr, Mad. Stod- 
dard, Samuel Sewall, Mr. Colman, M™ Colman, Mr. Cooper, 
Mrs. Cooper, Mrs. Hanah Cooper, Mr. Samuel Sewall of 
Brooklin, Mrs. Sewall, Mr. Joseph Sewall, Mrs. Lydia Wal- 
ley, Mr. William Stoddard. Had a noble Treat. At night 
our Meeting was at the Widow Belknap’s. Gave each one 
of the Meeting One of Mr. Homes’s Sermons, 12 in all; She 
sent her servant home with me with a Lantern. Madam 
Winthrop’s Shutters were open as I pass’d by. 

Nov? 11%. Went not to M™ Winthrop’s. This is the 2¢ 
Withdraw. 

Nov’ 21. About the middle of Dec?’ Madam Winthrop 
made a Treat for her Children; Mr. Sewall, Prince, Wil- 
loughby: I knew nothing of it; but the same day abode in the 
Council Chamber for fear of the Rain, and din’d alone upon 
Kilby’s Pyes and good Beer. 

Febr. 5, 1720-21. Lord’s Day, Lord’s Super at the South; 
Expostulated with my daughter Sewall for her receiving the 
Elements with her Gloves on; had spoken to her about it be- 
fore, and she had once practic’d otherwise, and I understood 
the had promised, or resolved to hold on. The Lord help me 


eee eee 


SEWALL’S DIARY 263 


to receive Christ by the naked Hand of Faith; and not rest 
in outward Order and Comliness. 

March, 3. 6. Mr. Foxcroft preaches the Sacramental Lec- 
ture. Keep the Feast. Very good Discourse, great Auditory. 
I think Madam Dudley, widow, was alone in the Fore-seat. 

March, 4. 7. Violent Storm of Snow; so that I go not out 
of doors. 

March, 5. Lord’s Day, Serene, and good but very cold, 
yet had a comfortable oportunity to celebrate the Lord’s 
Super. Mr. Prince, p. m. preach’d a Funeral Sermon from 
Psal. 90. 10. Gave Capt. Hill a good character. Just as I 
sat down in my Seat, one of my Fore-teeth in my under Jaw 
came out, and I put it in my pocket. This old servant and 
daughter of Musick leaving me, does thereby give me warn- 
ing that I must shortly resign my Head: the Lord help me 
to do it cheerfully! 

July, 4. 1721. I carry my daughter Hannah in the Coach 
to Brooklin; called at Deacon Mayo’s; Rebekah Morris came 
out to her. Then I call’d at Mrs. Ruggles’s, who came out 
to her and Hanah thank’d her for her Kindness when she 
lodg’d at her House. Went on to Brooklin, and I to Cam- 
bridge. My dater returned home very well that night, who 
had not been out of doors for two years and a half before. 
Laus Deo. 

Satterday, July, 15. I came home round. Visited my Sons 
and daters at Brooklin: Mr. Cooper preaches there to morrow. 
Call, and sit awhile with Madam Ruggles. She tells me, they 
had been up all night, her dater, Joseph Ruggles’s wife, was 
brought to bed of a dater. I shew’d my Willingness to renew 
my old acquaintance [as a suitor]; She express’d her inability 
to be Servicable. (Gave me Cider to drink. I came home. 

Thursday, Augt 3. Went in the Coach and visited Mrs. 
Ruggles after Lecture. She seems resolv’d not to move out 
of that house. May be of some use there; None at Beston— 
till she be carried out; made some Difficulty to accept an 


2604. SEWALL’S DIARY 


Election Sermon, lest it should be an obligation on her. The 
Coach staying long (going to Boston for a new Fare), I 
made some excuse for my stay; she said should be glad to wait 
on me till midnight, provided I should solicit her no more; or 
to that effect. I said she was willing to get rid of me. She 
answer’d, That was too sharp. I gave her Mr. Moodey’s 
Election Sermon, Marbled, with her Name written in it. Vis- 
ited her daughter Ruggles, wished her joy of her little daugh- 
ter in her Lap; and left a 2° Bill with Mrs. Ruggles, which 
she gave to Mrs. Pierpont, the present Nurse, who thank’d 
me heartily for it just as I came away. 

This day, 7" 16. I set up my Conecticut stone post in Elm 
pasture, in Remembrance of my loving Wife Mrs. Hanah 
Sewall. 


Copy of a Letter to Mrs. Mary Gibbs, Widow, at Newtown, 
Janta Zea] ieee: 

Madam, your Removal out of Town, and the Severity of 
the Winter, are the reason of my making you this Epistolary 
Visit. In times past (as I remember) you were minded that 
I should marry you, by giving you to your desirable Bride- 
groom. Some sense of this intended Respect abides with me 
still; and puts me upon enquiring whether you be willing 
that I should Marry you now, by becoming your Husband; 
Aged, and feeble, and exhausted as I am, your favourable An- 
swer to this Enquiry, in a few Lines, the Candor of it will 
much oblige, Madam, your humble Serv‘ 


Mapam GIBBs. Suis 


Friday, Jan¥ 19, 1721-2. I rode in Blake’s Coach, and vis- 
ited Mrs. Mary Gibbs at Mr. Cotton’s at Newton, told her 
that in my Judgment she writ incomparably well; ask’d her 
acceptance of a Quire of Paper to write upon. It was ac- 





; 
} 
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: 
{ 


SEWALL’S DIARY 265 


companied with a good Leather Inkhorn, a stick of Sealing 
Wax, and 200. Wafers in a little Box. Gave her little Grand- 
daughter, Mary Cotton, a 12¢ Bill; some of Meers’s Cakes. 
Gave 3° among the Servants. Carried 2. 6% Loavs. Din’d 
with Mr. Cotton, Mrs. Gibbs, Mrs. Cotton, Mrs. Anne 
Noyes; Mrs. Cotton, Mr. Cotton’s Sister. Came away about 
4. p.m. Had a very Comfortable Journy out, and home. Set 
out about % hour past Ten. Laus Deo. 

Friday, Jan’ 26. I rode to Newtown in the Coach, and 
visited Mrs. Gibbs. Spake of the proposals I had intimated 
per Mr. H. Gibbs; for her Sons to be bound to save me 
harmless as to her Administration; and to pay me £100. pro- 
vided their Mother died before me: I to pay her £50. per 
afum during her Life, if I left her a Widow. She said ’twas 
hard, she knew not how to have her children bound to pay 
that Sum; she might dye in a little time. Mr. Cotton, whom 
she call’d, spake to the same purpose, spake of a Joynture. I 
said I was peremptory as to the indemnifying Bond; Offer’d 
to take up with that alone, and allow her £40. per anum; 
Scolly’s Tenement yielded but £33., and then I made no ques- 
tion but that there must be a Deduction for Repairs. She 
said she would consider of it: I said, I would also Consider. 
Afterward she excus’d her speaking to me. I supose she 
meant the word Hard. Carried her a pound of Glaz’d Al- 
monds, and a Duz. Meers Cakes; TI'wo bottles of Canary. 
Visited Mrs. Cotton, wish’d her Joy of her young daughter 
Elizabeth. Gave little Mary 28. Had a very good Legg of 
Pork, and a Turkey for Diner. Mrs. Gibbs help’d me on 
with my Coat at Coming away; and stood in the Front door 
till the Coach mov’d, then I pull’d off my Hat, and she Cur- 
tesied. JI had moved to be published next Thorsday; to carry 
in our names to Col. Checkley. 

Jan’ 25. When I ask’d H. Gibbs what was the effect of 
his proposals, He answer’d, What his Mother would have 
done the Children would agree to it. 1 


266 SIE WA DL Li 8S) DT ARG. 


Copy of a Letter to Mrs. Mary Gibbs at Newtown, Midweek, 
Jan’ 31. 1721-22. 

Madam, One of the Crowns under this cover I intended 
for Mrs. Lane. But she not attending Madam Cotton, to 
Nurse her, be pleased to dispose both of them, as you think 
convenient. What the Gazette reports concerning France, is 
well worth the Reading. 

I have consider’d of our discourse last Friday, and, waiting 
for your Answer to my Second Proposal, am Madam, your 
humble Servant, Suoe 


Note. I inclos’d last Monday’s Gazette, two fair 5* Bills 
of Credit, and India Christiana Very well Bound, gilded on 
the edge, inscribed to Her with my own Hand. 

Jan’ 31. Ask’d Mr. H. Gibbs whether Mrs. Gibbs were 
come to Town; He said he had sent to her to know when she 
would come. Just as I was ready to go to Dorchester, he 
came in, and deliver’d me his Mother’s Letter of the 30% 
Current; and took mine lying in the Window ready Sealed 
up, to send to his Mother. May God provide! and Forgive, 
and Doe as the Matter may Require. 

Feb. 2. Stormy-day; Mr. Dan! Oliver came to advise with 
me about Mr. David Jeffries Debt to Mr. Hirst’s Estate. 

I took the Opportunity to speak plainly to him about Mrs. 
Gibbs; that her Children were not so Releas’d, but must be 
Bound to indemnify me as to former Debts, her Administra- 
tion. Told, I hoped she was not so Attach’d to her Children, 
but that she would carry it Tenderly to me; or else there 
would soon be an end of an old Man. I said, suposed they 
would Clothe her, Answered, no question; And would be 
Tender of me. Shew’d him both her Letters. 

Febr. 5%. Put Mr. Hugh Adams his Letter into the Post- 


house with my own Hand. 


i 





7 

1 
; 
\ 
. 
4 
y 
, 


SEWALL’S DIARY 267 


Copy of a Letter to Mrs. Mary Gibbs at Newtown, Febr. 
Shae MA RE, 


Madam, I Thank you for your Kind Letter of JanY 30*, 
which I receiv’d the next day, after Noon. I hope it is a 
Token for Good, that your obliging Answer harmonizeth with 
the Proposal mentioned in mine of January, 31, Which was 
seal’d up, and ready to be sent, before I received yours. 

These Preliminaries being agreeably stated, I long now to 
see you. You told me you would come to Boston; which 
makes me expect you; seeing you did not acquaint me with 
any alteration of your mind. Your Affairs will necessarily 
call you to Town; and I persuade my self, my being here, will 
not hinder your Coming hither; Chusing your own Time for 
Returning. My service to Mr. Cotton and his Lady. Pray- 
ing God to keep you, I am, Madam, your humble Serv‘. 

5. 5. 


To Mrs. Mary Gibbs at Newtown. 


Feb™ 10% 1721-22. Madam, These are kindly to salute 
you, and to say, that the Omission of Answering one or two 
of my Letters, and of coming to Town, makes it needful for 
me to enquire, what the plain meaning of your Letter of Jan’ 
30% may be. “I do chuse to comply with your last proposal, 
of Releasing my children, and Accepting of the sum you pro- 
posed.” 

The last Proposal was, For your children, or some in their 
behalf, to give Bond to indemnify me from all debts con- 
tracted by you before the Marriage; and from all matters re- 
specting the Administration. This I told you, I peremptorily 
insisted on. I was to secure you Forty pounds per afium 
during the term of your natural Life, in case of your Survival. 

This proposal must be taken entirely, every part of it to- 


268 SRMA L Lees! Da Amey 


gether. And if the words Releasing my Children, intend a 
Releasing them from this Bond, my last Proposal is not ac- 
cepted by you; and my Letter of Febr. the sixth, rests upon a 
mistaken foundation. I would prevent Misunderstanding, and 
therefore I thus write; praying an Answer as soon as conve- 
niently can be. My service to Madam Cotton. A am, Madam, 
your humble servant, S. S. 


I sent this by Joshuah Kibbe presently after twas written. 
Note. I had sent this proposal by Mr. H. Gibbs before I 
made it my self. When I ask’d his sentiments, He said, What 
his Mother did, he should Consent to it. 

Febr. 12. Mrs. Gibbs Came to Town; which her Son 
Henry told me of. 

14 return’d. I went to Col. Checkly, and enter’d our 
Names. Went to Mr. Williams, and ask’d his License to 
call him Brother: Was entertain’d Courteously. Went to 
James, and order’d our Publishment. Visited Mr. Daniel 
Oliver. 

Febr. 15. were publish’d the first time; were more to hear 
it than is usual. 


To Mrs. Mary Gibbs at Newton, Feb. 16, 1721-22. 


Madam, Possibly you have heard of our Publishment last 
Thorsday, before now. It remains, for us to join together in 
fervent Prayers, without ceasing, that God would graciously 
Crown our Espousals with his Blessing. A good Wife, and a 
good Husband too, are from the Lord. I am bound as far 
as Deacon Brewer’s to-day. “The Council sits in the Afternoon 
next Monday. And I am to wait on the Committee of the 
Overseers of the College next Tuesday the 20 Inst. Please 


ey! ee 


SEWALL’S DIARY 269 


to accept of Mr. Mitchel’s Sermons of Glory, which is in- 
closed. With my Service to Madam Cotton, I take leave, 
who am, Madam, your humble Serv*t. 5. S. 


To ditto Feb. 19, 1721-22 inclosing the Gazett, congrat- 
ulating Madam Cotton as having accomplished the time of 
her Lying in. Desiring she would intimat a day when it 
would be convenient for me to wait on her to bring her to 
Town. 

Febr. 22. Thorsday, were publish’d the 2% time. Mr. 
Vivien and Lydia Kay the first. Dr. Cotton Mather said 
aloud, The Voice of the Lord Thundereth; the voice of the 
Lord parts the Flames of Fire: and then read his Text, Ezek. 
15. 7. They shall go out of one Fire, and another Fire shall 
devour them. 

Friday, Febr. 23. Having received no Letter, I went in 
the Coach to Newton, with Mrs. Henry Gibbs and Mrs. 
Mary Williams. Dined there, and came away late; Ways 
very heavy, and pretty much Rain. Met Mr. Cotton about 
the middle of the way, which much refresh’d me, to think 
that his wife would have his Company, now her Mother was 
come away. ”Iwas near Ten a-clock before got home. Laus 
Deo. ae 

Feb. 24. Very pleasant day, Din’d with Mr. Stoddard on 
Fish and Oyle. Visited daughter Cooper. Mr. Cooper men- 
tion’d Dr. I. Mather’s preface to Mr. Belcher’s Sermon; and 
his passing over to the Great Grandfather. Visited Mrs. 
Gibbs, gave her an Orange. 

March, 29th. Samuel Sewall, and Mrs. Mary Gibbs were 
joined together in Marriage by the Rev? Mr. William Cooper, 
Mr. Sewall pray’d once. Mr. Jn° Cotton was at Sandwich, 
sent for by Madam Cotton after her Husband’s death. 

Lord’s day, April, 1. Sat with my wife in her Pue.s 

April, 2. Brought her home to my House. 


2'70 SEWALL’S DIARY 


April, 8. introduc’d her into my Pue, and sat with her 
there. 

Tuesday, Nov 27. I view the Eclipse in Scipio’s Garret, 
till the Eclipse it self was eclipsed by the Clouds. Afterward 
saw the ending of it below stairs. 

Friday, Augt 23, 1723. Dr. Increase Mather [dies], just 
at Noon, after long and grievous Sickness. Mention is made 
of it by Mr. Thacher at the Sacramental Lecture held this 
day. 

Lord’s Day, April, 5th, 1724. The Ways are dry, and 
the Weather moderat, so that I comfortably goe to the solemn 
Assembly Forenoon and Afternoon: Hear my Son preach- 
ing from the first Commandment; and Mr. Prince from Prov. 
8. 17., both exhorting to the Love of God; may I be enabled 
to hear through the Long-Suffering and Goodness of God! 
Ana an Infant was baptised. My wife wore her new Gown 
of Sprig’d Persian. 

Sept’ 14%. Last night died my good old Christian Neigh- 
bour and Friend, Mr. Elisha Odlin, Sensible and Calm to the 
very last. He was born July 1. 1640, upon the same Lot in 
Newbury Street where he all along Liv’d, and now dyed in 
the 85 year of his Age. 

June, 15, 1725. I accompanied my Son to Mad. Win- 
throp’s. She was a-bed about 10. mane. I told her I found 
my Son coming to her and took the Oportunity to come with 
him. She thank’d me kindly, enquired how Madam Sewall 
did. Ask’d my Son to go to Prayer. Present Mr. John Eyre, 
Mrs. Noyes, Mrs. Walley and David Jeffries. At coming I 
said, I kiss your hand Madame (her hand felt very dry). She 
desired me to pray that God would lift up upon her the Light 
of his Countenance. 

Monday, Augt 2. Mrs. Katherine Winthrop, Relict of 
the honble. Waitstill Winthrop esqr., died, Aetatis 61. She 
was born in September 1664. The Escutcheons on the Hearse 
bore the Arms of Winthrop and Brattle, The Lion Sable. 


SEWALL’S DIARY 271 


Augt 5. 1725. Bearers, His Hon™ Lt Gov’ Dummer, Sam! 
Sewall; Col. Byfield, Edw. Bromfield esqr; Simeon Stoddard 
esqr.. Adam Winthrop esqr. Was buried in the South-bury- 
ing place, in a Tomb near the North-east Corner. Will be 
much miss’d. 

Fifth-day, April, 21, 1726. The swallows unanimously 
and cheerfully proclaim the Spring. ‘They have been dis- 
couraged and made much to abscond for about a Week, by 
reason of the Constantly N. E. Wind and Rain. 

Satterday, April 15, 1727. Last night three musicians ser- 
enaded me under my Chamber Window once or twice; but 
being very early, I was so fast asleep, I scarce heard any 
thing of it: Several of the family heard it. 

Sept? 10% 1728. Last night I dreamed that a little boy 
had got away my watch, I found him on the Comon, and by 
giving him another Watch persuaded him to give me that 
round which was engraven 


Auris, mens, oculus, manus, os, pes; munere fungi 
Dum pergunt, prestat discere velle mori. 


When I awaked I was much startled at it. The Lord help 
me to watch and pray that I may not enter into Temptation. 

October, 19. 1728. Seeing this to be the same day of the 
week and Moneth that the Wife of my youth expired Eleven 
years agoe, it much affected me. I writ to my dear Son Mr. 
Joseph Sewall of it, desiring him to come and dine with me: 
or however that he would call some time to join my Con- 
dolence. He came about Noon and made an excellent Prayer 
in the East Chamber. Laus Deo. 

Ditto, die, feria Septima. I gave my dear Wife a Book 
of 7 Sermons, which had been my Daughter Hanah’s, for 
whom she had laboured beyond measur. 

Feria Secunda, Octob™ 13, 1729. Judge Davenport comes 
to me between 10 and 11 a-clock in the morning and speaks 


272 SEWALL’S DIARY 


to me on behalf of Mr. Addington Davenport, his eldest Son, 
that he might have Liberty to Wait upon Jane Hirst now at 
my House in way of Courtship. He told me he would deal 
by him as his eldest Son, and more than so. Inten’d to build 
a House where his uncle Addington dwelt for him; and that 
he should have his Pue in the Old Meetinghouse. I gave him 
my Hand at his going away and acknowledegd his Respect to . 
me and granted his desire. He said Madam Addington would 
wait upon me. 

His Honour the Lieut Governour visited me quickly after, 
and acquainted me that he design’d for Newbury in a day or 
two, to stay for a week or fortnight. 

I inform’d his Honor of what Mr. Davenport had been 
about; His Honor approved it much, Comended the young 
Man and reckon’d it a very good Match. 


THE END 





Date Due 


PRINTED] IN U.S. A, 











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